GIS – 28 September, 2018: A one-day workshop on new trends and patterns in the jewellery sector was held yesterday at Cyber Tower 1 in Ebène Cyber-city. The aim was to enhance the talents of local enterprises in developing trendy jewellery collections for their export markets.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Consumer Protection, Mr M. S. Ferhat Joomun, and French Consultant and Creative Director in the field of jewellery, Ms Geraldine Valluet, were present at the launch event.
In his address, the Permanent Secretary highlighted the importance of unleashing the potential of the jewellery sector in Mauritius. It is a key pillar of the manufacturing industry comprising nearly 350 enterprises and employing more than 2 500 skilled workers, he pointed out.
In addition, Mr Joomun elaborated on the various measures enunciated by Government to give a new impetus to the jewellery sector. These comprise: the Speed to Market Scheme aiming to boost jewellery, textile and apparel exports to European countries and to enhance product delivery; the reengineering of the Fashion and Design Institute (FDI) with focus on training in jewellery; and, the transfer of the jewellery centre to the FDI in order to cater to the needs of students in the jewellery field.
Speaking about the workshop, the Permanent Secretary indicated that it will help to reinforce the capabilities of participants so as to keep them abreast of latest designs and trends unfolding in international markets. Therefore, participants will acquire the know-how as regards production techniques, market requirements and trends so as to meet the needs of customers more efficiently and compete on the basis of quality and innovation, he added.
For her part, Ms Valluet, pointed out that with the rapid evolution in the jewellery market, enterprises are called upon to adapt to the current trends in order to remain competitive. Many Mauritian enterprises are already producing quality luxury products, but constant changes are necessary both in terms of stylistic and technical trend for enterprises to remain viable in this sector, she observed.
Moreover, the French Consultant emphasised that the participation of Mauritian manufacturers at the Bijorhca in Paris this month has been fruitful as many visitors have expressed satisfaction and delight with regards to the local products and services offered. These participants, Ms Valluet underlined, have shown their sharp know-how by displaying their collections at this international trade show.
Following the Bijhorca event, interactions are ongoing between Mauritian operators and the international market which show the significant potential of the jewellery sector in Mauritius, said Ms Valluet.
About the workshop
It was organised by the Economic Development Board with the objectives to provide an opportunity for participants to learn about the international market trends and production techniques; and, to better understand the diminishing gap between major international fashion houses and traditional fine jewellery brands as well as the methods used to creating value-added products for the customers.
Various themes were discussed such as key products, design concepts and colour raw materials so as to develop a competitive edge for Mauritian enterprises in the field.
Government Information Service, Prime Minister’s Office, Level 6, New Government Centre, Port Louis, Mauritius. Email: gis@govmu.org Website: http://gis.govmu.org