This year, Thailand is to host the 19th International Colored Gemstone Association (ICA) Congress. The event will reinforce the status of Thailand as the world’s leading colored stone exporter and promote the country as the world’s gem and jewelry trading center.

The Deputy Minister of Commerce, Weerasak Wangsuphakijkosol, presided over the opening of the ICA Congress 2019 on the theme "Ruby: Eternal Love" at the Shangri-La Hotel, Bangkok. 

The event is jointly organized by the Gem and Jewelry Institute of Thailand and the International Colored Gemstone Association. The congress serves as a platform for gem and jewelry traders from around the world to share industry information.

This is the third time Thailand has hosted the ICA Congress because of the country’s place in this industry.

This year, many of the world’s leading gem and jewelry traders are sharing their experiences on many topics, such as emerald and ruby mining in Africa; the colored stone industry; corporate social responsibility and standards of gem and jewelry testing.

Mr. Weerasak said Thailand is renowned for its colored stones and high standard of workmanship. The country is also one of the leading gem and jewelry manufacturers and suppliers, while its inspection is in compliance with the international standards for quality and excellence.

The industry has contributed a large amount of revenue to the country. The Ministry of Commerce is ready to help and support local gem and jewelry traders in the international market place and promote the country as the world’s gem and jewelry trading center.

For many years, Thailand has been a center for rubies. Gem and jewelry exports rank third in Thailand’s total export value, generating annual revenue of almost 1 trillion baht and creating jobs for some 700,000 people.

At the ICA Congress 2019, many gems and jewelry items, including Siamese rubies, are on display. The Deputy Minister of Commerce awarded honorary plaques to individuals who support the Thai colored stone industry, including representatives of the Italian Republic, the United States of America, the People’s Republic of China, and the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China.