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Milan, Italy—CIBJO, the World Jewellery Confederation, announces the Federation of the Swiss Watch Industry FH has joined the organization. CIBJO President Gaetano Cavalieri says it underscores the convergent interests of the watch, jewelry and gemstone sectors and the need for all to work together to protect consumer confidence and support.

Representing around 460 members, more than 90% of Swiss firms active in the production and sale of watches, clocks and components, the Federation of the Swiss Watch Industry FH was established in 1982 to protect and develop the Swiss watch industry, uphold its members’ interests, and represent the sector in Switzerland and abroad.

“We are delighted to have so important a leader in the international watch sector as part of CIBJO,” said Cavalieri. “Together the jewelry, gemstone and watch industries represent more than $250 billion in sales annually, reaching out to a very similar consumer base, often using the same chains of distribution, particularly at the retail end. We have parallel interests and face common threats. For all of us, consumer confidence is not simply desirable, but it is a business prerequisite. I look forward to working with my Swiss colleagues in creating a common front, allowing us work united and strengthened in the international markets.”

"We are very proud to join such a worldwide association as CIBJO,” added Dr. Jean-Daniel Pasche, FH President. “The jewelry, gemstone and watch industries are so linked together that it makes sense to group our competences and values to improve the development of our activities and to fully satisfy the expectations of consumers."