Shining a light on Tanzania’s burgeoning interest in the international precious gem market, a Tanzanian delegation led by Deputy Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Minerals, Msafiri Mbibo, recently took part in a learning journey to Thailand. Enhancing their skills and understanding of International Jewellery Auctions, the team gleaned insights from the Bonas Group of Belgium, reputed for their 150-year experience in the field. This intensive training aims to bolster Tanzania’s commitment to promoting value-addition activities, attracting investments, and fostering trade in their thriving mining sector. Eager to share their newly honed skills, the delegation is preparing to resurrect the Arusha Gem and Jewellery Fair, advancing Tanzania’s position on the global stage of gemstone trade.
Initiating Tanzanian Delegation to Thailand
In an effort to boost the Tanzanian gem and jewellery industry, a delegation led by Deputy Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Minerals, Msafiri Mbibo, was recently initiated to Thailand. The trip’s main focus was to learn jewellery auction skills and understand the workings of the renowned Bonas Group of Belgium which boasts a long history of 150 years in the business.
Learning jewellery auction skills
The purpose of this delegation was primarily to learn how to effectively carry out international jewellery auctions. Gaining first-hand exposure to this process by observing experts in action is undeniably a powerful way to acquire the necessary knowledge and skills.
Understanding the operations of Bonas Group of Belgium
A key part of the delegation’s visit was to learn from the best in the industry, which in this case is the Bonas Group of Belgium. By studying their operations, methods and strategies, the Tanzanian representatives were able to gain valuable insights into the intricacies of running successful international jewelry auctions.
Purpose of Participation in the Auction
To understand the need for Tanzania’s participation in the jewellery auction, it’s essential to delve into the specific objectives of the delegation’s visit.
Encouraging mining value-addition activities
A key priority for the Tanzanian Ministry of Minerals is to encourage value addition activities in the mining industry. Notably, perceived advantages of participating in auctions could lead Tanzanian miners to invest more in improving the quality of their gems, thereby adding more value to their products.
Motivate investment and trade in mining sector
By showcasing how effectively international auctions are conducted, the delegation hoped to stimulate interest among Tanzanian miners and investors. The aim is to create an attractive environment for investment and trade in the Tanzanian gems and jewellery sector.
Establishment of auctions and gem mining exhibitions
Moreover, the goal was to learn the rewards and logistics of hosting auctions and gem mining exhibitions. These activities provide a direct route to global markets, raise the international profile of Tanzania’s gem producers, and stimulate interest among global traders and buyers.
Insight into Conducting International Auctions
A vital part of the delegation’s aims was to gain a comprehensive understanding of the process of conducting international auctions.
Understanding company’s international auction process
Knowledge of how the business operates at a global level, from sourcing to bidding and sales, is critical. This will be beneficial when Tanzania plans to manage its own international auctions in the future.
Recognition of Tanzania as a gems producer in the marketplace
Observing the auction process also highlighted the importance of effectively marketing Tanzania’s gems at a global level. Proper representation of Tanzania at international auctions can raise the country’s profile, drawing larger audiences to future Tanzanian auctions and exhibitions.
The Ministry’s Envisioned Strategy
The Ministry’s vision for the future is centered around taking the Tanzanian gem industry on to the global stage.
Plans to run Gem International Auctions
After observing and learning from the success of international auctions, the Tanzanian Ministry intends to plan and execute similar auctions. This will showcase Tanzanian gems to a global audience and provide a new, lucrative outlet for the nation’s gem producers.
Preparations to re-establish the Arusha Gem and Jewellery Fair
In conjunction with planning auctions, the Ministry is working to re-establish the Arusha Gem and Jewelry Fair. This iconic event can serve as a launchpad for Tanzanian gems and jewelry, connecting local producers with buyers and investors from all over the world.
Learning the Entire Chain of Value-Addition Activities
The delegation also delved into other aspects of the gem industry while in Thailand.
Appreciation of technologies enhancing gem quality
As part of the visit, the delegation learned about the technologies used to improve the quality of gems. This knowledge can be passed on to Tanzanian miners, potentially leading to the production of higher quality gemstones.
Exploring commercial opportunities and investment options
The delegation also explored a variety of commercial opportunities and investment options, learning how to identify and pursue new avenues for growth.
Strengthening cooperation in various fields
A significant part of the delegation’s trip was dedicated to strengthening cooperation between Tanzanian and international entities. This cooperation covers a wide range of areas, from mining technologies to commercial partnerships.
Encouragement for Participation
After acquiring new knowledge and insights, the delegation is urging Tanzanian traders and miners to participate in these international auctions.
Call for traders and miners with precious gemstones to engage in auction
The delegation is urging Tanzanian traders and miners who possess precious gemstones to participate in these auctions. Not only will this expose them to a vast, international market, but they can also learn the ropes of global trading.
Opportunities to connect with major customers worldwide
Participants in these auctions will have the opportunity to connect with major customers from around the world, exposing their products to a much wider audience and potentially leading to lucrative deals.
Role of the Bonas Group
The Bonas Group plays a critical role in the international gems and jewellery sector. Tanzania’s delegation’s interactions with them have been fruitful in understanding how to approach the global market.
Facilitation of promoting markets and increasing gem value
Bonas Group has been instrumental in helping gem mining companies and nations like Tanzania to increase gem value and promote their markets at a global level.
Provision of global exposure through tender procedures
Through their globally recognised tender procedures, Bonas Group has opened up the world of gem auctions to countries like Tanzania, offering them a way to engage directly with world markets and the global audience.
Engagement with Thai Gem and Jewellery Traders Association
The Tanzanian delegation also engaged with the Thai Gem and Jewellery Traders Association (TGJTA) to discuss further cooperation.
Interaction with President of TGJTA and senior association leaders
The delegation met up with President of the TGJTA, Somchai Phornchindarak, and other senior association leaders, resulting in constructive dialogue and collaborations for the future.
Establishment of cooperation in training, technology, and trade
Training, technology, and trade emerged as the main areas for cooperation. Sharing of knowledge and expertise in these fields will undoubtedly stimulate growth in the Tanzanian gem and jewellery industry.
Meeting with the Leadership of the Gem and Jewellery Institute of Thailand
One of the significant meetings during the delegation’s trip was with the leadership of the Gem and Jewellery institute of Thailand (GIT).
Agreement to collaborate with the Tanzanian Government and Tanzania Gemology Centre
GIT agreed to collaborate with the Tanzanian Government and the Tanzania Gemology Centre. This partnership is set to improve local skills and knowledge in gem cutting and polishing, thus enhancing the value of Tanzanian gemstones.
Commitment to train Tanzanian youths in gem mining value addition
The GIT has committed to training Tanzanian youths on adding value to gem mining. This initiative is a long-term strategy aimed at sustaining the country’s gem mining trade and passing on the skills to the next generation.
Anticipated Outcomes from the Training
The expected outcomes from the GIT’s training are manifold.
Stimulation of Tanzania’s gem mining trade
The acquired knowledge and skills from GIT’s training are anticipated to stimulate activity in Tanzania’s gem mining trade. The infusion of new technologies, practices, and other industry insights is expected to elevate the Tanzanian gem industry to new heights.
Providing employment opportunities
By developing a skilled workforce in the gem mining trade, the Tanzanian government plans to provide improved employment opportunities for its citizens. This not only provides livelihoods but also helps in developing a robust, sustainable economy.
Transfer of skills to the younger generation
A key outcome of the GIT’s training will be the transfer of skills to the younger generation. This ensures that the Tanzanian gem industry will continue to grow and flourish for years to come, bolstered by a constant influx of skilled artisans and miners.
