JCK New Delhi Takes Place as Market Experiences Slowdown

JCK New Delhi opened against the backdrop of an industry slowdown both domestically and in exports. The response for the first three days reflected this, with fairly thin visitor traffic in the mornings, which picked up to some extent in the afternoons. “We have had some visitors,” said one exhibitor, “But the response is nowhere near what is expected.”

Farid A. Redha Karmostaji, director of the Dubai Export Development Corporation, who inaugurated the show, said Dubai has a keen interest in India. For the first time, Dubai had a pavilion at the show, part of DEDC’s efforts to support Dubai’s export trade.

Other countries participating at the JCK New Delhi include Italy, Thailand, Turkey and Japan.

The Indo-Italian Chamber of Commerce and Industry hosted a networking event on the first day of the show. Claudio Maffioletti presented data on the response of Italian companies doing business in India, based on a survey of 40 companies in the jewelry sector.

Speaking at a press conference following the formal inauguration of the show, Mandeep Singh, COO of Reed Exhibitions, said the number of exhibitors was up nearly 10 percent to 210 this year.  Pre-registration reached 12,000, though organizers expected 7,000-8,000 visitors at the fair.

Singh also highlighted various innovations introduced this year, including a separate luxury and watch pavilion, online scheduling of meetings and the formation of a key buyers club. This club was formed after exhibitors were asked which buyers they would like to meet. Special invitations were sent to the suggested companies.