Thailand is grooming itself to present its potentials in the gemstone industry, as the 42nd Bangkok Gems & Jewelry Fair draws near. The event is organised by Thai Gem & Jewelry Traders Association (TGJTA) and scheduled to be held between 11-15 September, 2008, The organizers intend the event to launch Thailand as the World’s Gems & Jewelry Hub. %% According to official figures, gemstone exports from the region rose by 38.55 percent in 2007, amounting to $371.37 million. In the past five months of 2008, the increase has been a whooping 70.85 percent, valuing at $238.81 million. Imports of gemstones were worth $90.14 million up 35.90 percent Y-o-Y, in 2007. In the five months of 2008, import increased by 48.61 percent, valuing at $133.95 million. Thailand has been popular the world over for its gemstone mining, processing, jewellery manufacturing and trading. It acknowledges the support of Department of Export Promotion and the Thai government, who encouraged research, training programs and educational seminars to be conducted in the country over the years and build the country into a competitive global gemstone market. %% The bi-annual Bangkok Gems and Jewelry Fair (BGJF) is a promising platform for exhibitors and attendees to gain much from Thailand’s deliverables and from the growing gemstone industry. BGJF has been recognised as one of the world's premier jewel events as well as the fifth largest trade show.