Turkish State Minister Kursad Tuzmen inaugurated the 21st Istanbul Jewelry Fair (International Jewelry, Silver, Watch & Equipment Fair) at CNR Expo Center in Istanbul on Wednesday.
Speaking at the inauguration Tuzmen said, ''jewelry sector reached 929 million USD in export in 2004. This will increase in next years. In 2005, the export amount in jewelry sector will be more than 1 billion USD.''
''Jewelry making exists in Anatolia for over 5000 years. We are now world's second exporter and third producer in this sector. Our target is to be the first,'' he added.
A total of 629 companies, 199 of which from 23 foreign countries, are participating the fair.
22,000 Turkish and 3,000 foreign customers are expected to visit the fair which will remain open till August 27th.
