Here in Bangkok, Spokes Jewelry Services is open for business and manufacturing jewelry daily. Unlike a lot of global jewelry manufacturers, we are working as usual to produce fine quality gold and diamond jewelry pieces. We’ve had inquiries from designers around the world who are understandably worried because their jewelry manufacturer in India or the US has shut down and they don’t know when they might open again. There’s so much uncertainty in those countries. Here in Thailand we’re grateful to be in a better position. Below I’ll explain why!
Thailand’s Advantages
Firstly, Thailand’s government has been pro-active since early on in this Covid-19 crisis. They stopped allowing large Chinese tour groups back in February. Schools were close in February and nightclubs, stadiums, gyms etc soon afterwards. The Thai government focused on keeping factories and other essential businesses open. This includes jewelry manufacturers.
Thailand has a superb medical system. Within South East Asia, it has the best medical technology and hospitals. Laboratory testing is easy and readily available. The Thai government very quickly set up drive through testing for Covid-19. The hospitals continue to have a lot of additional capacity for Coronavirus patients.
And….Thais wear masks! We’ve been wearing masks since January. This is partly due to an annual pollution problem but it seems to be working. We also wai here in Thailand. We don’t shake hands or hug in this country and Greg and I have happily learned to wai alongside them. A wai is a short bow with the palms together in a prayer position. No touching needed!
Thailand & the US
Here’s a link below about what the US-Thai relationship looks like. Many of the designers we work with are in the US and Greg is American (I’m Irish). We see a lot of concerns out there about US-Chinese relationships. Thailand is again in a much better position than its neighbors. This is thanks to a 150 plus year positive relationship. US companies have a special position here in Thailand. Here’s a link to the new US Ambassador to Thailand who is working hard to keep trade relations between these old friends growing. https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1895830/thailand-us-in-proactive-trade-talks
Get in touch – we’re here for you!
If you are working on your post-Coronavirus collection, we’re here and ready to work on the samples today. If you are frustrated because your jewelry manufacturer isn’t available, we’re here. Email me (Emma) at info@spokesjewelry.com. Our staff are here and ready to work on your new collection.
