As a non-governmental organisation, the GPC brings together companies, trade associations and industry representatives from pearl producing regions worldwide. Thus covering both the saltwater and freshwater pearl sectors.
Industry veteran Robert Wan of Tahiti Perles was elected GPC's first president. Along with a group of vice presidents and members representing major pearl production hubs.
Wong Tat Wah of Yee On (Group) Ltd, Hong Kong, China, was appointed Vice-Chairman. Rosario Autore of Autore Pearls Pty Ltd, Australia. Peter Bracher of Paspaley Pearling Company, Australia. Zhan Weijian of Grace Pearl (HK) Co Ltd; Zhou Shuo of Hainan GN Pearl Technology Inc, China. Francesco Bruno of PT Autore Pearl Culture, Indonesia. Hiroki Goto of Japan Pearl Promotion Society, Japan. Si Thu of Myanmar Atlantic Co Ltd, Myanmar. Jacques Christophe Branellec of Jewelmer, Philippines.
According to Arthur Wong, general secretary of GPC and chairman of Hong Kong-based Fukui Shell Nucleus Factory Ltd, GPC aims to promote international cooperation across the value chain. As they focus on standardization, sustainability and quality of pearls. But with a vision to enhance the resilience and global competitiveness of the industry.
«The GPC was founded jointly by organisations and businesses in the pearl and jewellery trade. It is the first international organization in the pearl sector with broad representation and specialized expertise,» said Wong. «Through the unity of pearl plantations and pearl companies worldwide, we hope to promote growth in the pearl industry.».
The GPC will consolidate resources across the global pearl trade, proactively encouraging collaboration between member organisations in areas such as technological innovation, ethical practices, branding and sustainable development.
At its inaugural general meeting in Hong Kong on 19 September 2025, the GPC celebrated its official launch with over 50 delegates from leading pearl companies and related organisations, including, among others, the World Jewellery Confederation (CIBJO), China Gem and Jewellery Trade Association (GAC), the Pearl Promotion Society of Japan (JPPS), the Gem and Jewellery Traders Association of Thailand (TGJTA), the Taipei Pearl Association of Hong Kong (TPAHK), the Hong Kong Pearl Association (HKPA) and the Hong Kong Jewellery Manufacturers Association (HKJMA).
Gaetano Cavalieri, Chairman of CIBJO, noted the importance and positive impact of the establishment of GPC, adding that he looks forward to working with GPC to elevate the industry to higher levels.
Source: news.jewellerynet.com
