Mumbai, July 2025 —
Diamonds remain a cornerstone of Belgium–India ties, as evidenced at the India International Jewellery Show (IIJS) — the world’s second-largest B2B jewellery exhibition, promoted by GJEPC India. This year’s event saw 3,500 exhibitors gathered and over 50,000 visitors in just a few days, demonstrating the solidity and scale of the international gem and jewellery industry.
At Nesco, Mumbai, the grand opening of the event was attended by Ambassador Didier Vanderhasselt accompanied by GJEPC Chairman Kirit Bhansali, Vice Chairman Vipul Shah, and Maharashtra Minister for Skill Development Mangal Prabhat Lodha.
Evidently, HRD Antwerp, international leader in grading diamond and jewellery, made its presence felt with two specialized booths. In the course of the event, Tom Neys, Global Director of Marketing, Sales, and Education at HRD Antwerp, presented the company’s strategic plans for expanding its market in India, emphasizing Antwerp’s determination to further cement its relationship with the Indian diamond industry.
The diamond trade remains a bedrock of Belgium–India economic relations, smoothly bridging Antwerp’s international trading tradition with Surat’s world-famous expertise in cutting and polishing diamonds.
This dynamic partnership demonstrates not just well-established business connections but also a sense of respect for greatness, ingenuity, and cross-cultural exchanges between the two countries.
Courtesy Embassy of Belgium Facebook Page