Mauritius to participate for the first time in Inhorgenta Munich Exhibition

Europe is the leading market for jewellery products accounting for one third of the world’s jewellery imports. In line with the objective to increase awareness on the ‘Made in Mauritius’ brand, Enterprise Mauritius is leading a delegation of five jewellery manufacturers to participate for the first time at Inhorgenta Munich Jewellery Exhibition which will be held from 18 to 21 February 2017.

Held on an annual basis since 1972, Inhorgenta Munich is an ideal platform for the local jewellery manufacturers to promote their latest collections developed for the European Union markets. The participants from Mauritius are : Cira Ltd ; B.W. Necklaces Ltd ; Bella Bijoux Ltd ; Bolero Jewels Ltd ; and Odyssee Diam & Co Ltd. 

This major international event is. The coming edition will feature seven halls for different categories of jewellery as follows: Timepieces; Technology; Jewellery; Fine jewellery; Elegance and Lifestyle; Carat; and Contemporary Design and Vision.

The 2016 edition featured 940 exhibitors from 33 different countries and attracted 26,000 visitors from 75 countries. The main visitors were mainly from Austria, Italy, Switzerland, Netherlands, Czech, Belgium, Spain, UK among others.  

Mauritius exported over Rs 5.52 billion worth of jewelry products in 2015. The jewellery industry is the third export pillar of the manufacturing sector and employs around 3 000 people. This sector is growing at a steady pace and there are 50 companies that are currently exporting to 35 countries.

The jewellery sector has attracted an important number of foreign investors, namely from Italy, France, Switzerland and Germany. They have set up manufacturing companies primarily involved in export activities. The arrival of foreign investors has also resulted in technological improvement to existing processes and has led the way to innovation at the design level.

France, United States of America, and Belgium are the major markets for jewellery products. The main products which are exported are: Cut and polish diamond, Ring studded with diamond, Earing brooches; Hollow chains and mechanical chains; High end clasps and findings; Silver and gold jewellery including rings; Pendants, necklaces, and bracelets; Electroform products; High end fashion jewellery with Swarovski crystals; Resin based fashion jewellery; and Gift and accessories.