4th 'City of Gold' Conference announced by Dubai Gold & Jewellery Group (DGJG)

The conference is supported by the Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC), a Government of Dubai initiative that provides industry-specific market infrastructure and a full range of facilities for a full-fledged commodities market in Dubai.

The City of Gold conference will set the stage for further development of the industry, by addressing vital topics that will enable the industry to lead the road to innovation. The key focus areas of the conference will be Marketing, Innovation, Education and Trade Finance which have been carefully chosen to facilitate sustained and increased growth for the industry.

The conference is recognized globally as the only one of its caliber to be held in the region, that seeks to address the challenges faced by the jewellery industry as a whole. It is a global meet for all players within the jewellery industry, providing insights and testimonials of successful strategies.

Having gained the support of the local government, the conference will showcase industry development in various emerging markets, including China, India, Iran, Europe, Africa, America and the Middle East.

The forum will also discuss ideas for development of industry standards in education, which will enhance marketing and technological innovations, and improvement in human capital.

Tawhid Abdullah, Chairman, DGJG, said: 'This year's theme will cater to the global jewellery industry challenges, with a particular focus on reinvigorating and re-focusing on the prime needs of winning the hearts and minds of customers.

'The conference will also shed light on the crucial role of innovation in all aspects of marketing, design development and even financial management; and the key role that customer and industry focused education will play in augmenting this progression. There will also be an overview of trade finance, analysis of Middle East jewellery industry, and of successful jewellery retailing with a discussion on ways to transcend the retail experience.'

'The gold industry is at a crucial stage in its development today and is experiencing growth in all aspects. DMCC has been instrumental in facilitating the development of the local and regional gold and precious metals market and works towards promoting the highest global standards in product and service development, while simultaneously encouraging greater transparency,' said Ahmed bin Sulayem, Chief Operating Officer, Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC).

'It is important for all stakeholders of the industry to work together to ensure that future growth will be streamlined and across all segments. The City of Gold conference is an excellent networking forum for the gold and jewellery industry, as it brings together the entire supply chain from mining to manufacturing jewellery under one platform. We look forward to a series of interesting discussions at this event,' he added.

The DMCC, which has been a strategic partner of this conference for the last two years, will use its participation to update delegates on its successful initiatives, including the recent launch of the Dubai Gold and Commodities Exchange (DGCX). These initiatives have enabled Dubai to reiterate its position as an international trading hub for commodities.

Some of the International speakers include Blackie Marole, Managing Director DeBswana, Botswana, Wan Zikun, - President, Chamber of Commerce for Jewelry & Precious metals, Industry of All-China Federation of Industry & Commerce, who will discuss the Gold business Development in China. Additionally, Nigel Desebrock- Managing Director, Grendon International Research will showcase his research done on Iran - A Major Gold Market in Hiding.

The organized sector retail revolution in India and its impact in the Middle East will be addressed by B.S Nagesh - Chief Executive Officer, Shoppers Stop. Piyush Mathur- Managing Director, GCC, AC Nielsen, will give a comprehensive understanding of building jewellery brands in the Middle East.

Paul Van Eeden a known bullion expert, will explain relevant insights to the audience, giving them a clear understanding on the Gold Market from a monetary perspective. Chiam Even Zohar will discuss Anti Money Laundering compliance programs on the international diamond and jewellery trade and industry. Kenneth Gassman, President of Jewellery Research Institute will provide unique insights from a retail jewellery industry perspective on how to right targeting your customer.

The participation of speakers from Standard Bank, HSBC, Transguard will present the latest in recent market initiatives by them in the region and their impact on the gold industry as a whole. DMCC, has been constant support to the conference, will use this as an opportunity to enlighten those attending the conference on the initiatives that have been undertaken to strengthen and maintain Dubai's recognition as an international trading hub.

Martin Botha, Standard Bank Plc's Managing Director responsible for the region commented, 'Our continued participation, for the fourth year in a row, in this prestigious gold conference confirms Standard Bank's commitment to Dubai and Resource Banking in the Middle East, and we are particularly pleased that this year's event coincides with the launch of Standard Bank's new branch in the DIFC.'

The overriding objective of the 4th Dubai 'City Of Gold' conference is to offer the industry an opportunity to align itself, across all sectors, with the global jewellery industry. From mining to marketing, the conference will work towards creating the foundation for the industry to approach today's market with a concerted jewellery marketing effort. The theme of the conference is to emphasize the need for a multi-pronged approach that would weave innovation and education along with an overview of trade finance and local and regional industry analysis.

'The Dubai City of Gold Conference is an important event which attracts professionals and experts from around the world who come together to share their ideas and offer insights into key trends in this market as well as global phenomena associated with this dynamic industry. NBF is delighted to be a key sponsor of this prestigious event being a key player in this market with a dedicated team of experts who provide innovative business solutions geared to this industry,' added Mr. Asad Aziz Ahmed, General Manager, National Bank of Fujairah

John Blanthorne, Regional Head of Commercial Banking for HSBC Bank Middle East Ltd said, 'We are delighted to be a key sponsor for the 4th edition of the Gold & Jewellery Group Conference. It is a natural association for HSBC, being one of the most active banks in the global precious metals markets and the only international bullion bank to have a direct presence in the UAE for gold bullion services.'

John further added, 'Our unique gold product offering is one-of-its-kind in the region and our transparency has assisted in developing the local bullion market in sync with international standards. We aim to further develop our precious metals business in the region and are fully supportive of such conferences that benefit the industry as a whole.'

Main conference sponsor Transguard, Emirates Group's security services provider, offers state-of-the-art, reliable and cost-effective security solutions of an international standard to most premier banks operating in the Gulf region, as well as ground-handling of high-value cargo for all airlines at Dubai International Airport.

Dr. Abdulla Al Hashimi, Divisional Senior Vice President, Emirates Group Security, said: 'Transguard is delighted to be a prominent part of this important international forum for an industry in which the highest global standards of security are paramount. The conference will be a significant showcase for our latest innovations and expertise in the security of gold and jewellery, as well as other high-value goods.'

The 'City of Gold Conference' since its inception has been identified, as being result oriented. The panel discussion will debate the strategies previously employed by associations and marketing bodies and their rate of success, and finally will provide a foundation upon which the industry can further strengthen its position in the world market.