PHNOM PENH: The 15th edition of the Cambodia International Gems and Jewelry Fair kicked off on Thursday, aiming to boost trade of precious stones and jewelry.

The five-day fair, from Mar. 21 to 25, is being held at Koh Pich Convention and Exhibition Centre in Phnom Penh with displays of precious stones and jewelry by local and international firms.

The fair is organised in order for jewelry traders and companies, both domestic and foreign, to display their jewelry and precious stones, said Mr. Chhay Sinat, Acting President of the Cambodian Gems and Jewelry Traders Association.

“The five-day fair is aimed to showcase the potential in the jewelry and gem sector in the country and provide insights into the growth and design of contemporary Cambodian finery,” Mr. Chhay Sinat, said in the opening ceremony on Mar. 21.

The fair is expected to give floor to all Cambodian traders and jewelry designers to meet and collaborate with foreign partners to promote their businesses, he added.

Ministry of Commerce's Under Secretary of State H.E. Ms. Tan Tepikanika said the fair will boost trade of jewelry and precious stones and raise awareness of the country's jewelry sector.

Figures from the Ministry of Commerce show that Cambodia exported some US$850 million worth of jewelry and precious stones to the international market in 2023, up 261 percent compared to 2022.