Why the time is right for Basilia
The timing couldn't be better for a new beginning. New markets, new generations of buyers and changing sourcing requirements are reshaping the jewellery and watch industry, bringing fresh energy to a sector deeply rooted in tradition. The Jewellery & Watch Fair Basilia is designed to capture that momentum. Interview with Letizia Elia.
by Roman Imgrüth, CEO MCH Exhibitions & Event || 15 October 2026
We are creating Basilia Jewellery & Watch Fair from the ground up around the needs of today’s market: a focused, curated and efficient platform where the quality of the exchange matters as much as the quality of the presentation.
More than a showcase, Basilia will be a place where business, new connections and face-to-face encounters take centre stage. Exhibitors can expect a high-quality environment, efficient participation formats and direct access to the international buyers and media most relevant to them.
I’m particularly excited to have Informa Markets as our partner. Its Hong Kong fairs - Jewellery & Gem ASIA in June and Jewellery & Gem WORLD in September - are among the industry’s leading sourcing destinations, while its global portfolio of jewellery events attracts more than 260,000 trade visitors each year. Combining Informa Markets’ industry expertise and international network with MCH Group’s experience and Basel’s long tradition as a trade-fair hub gives Basilia real strength from the outset.
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«Basilia welcomes the world of jewellery and watches»
Basilia is taking shape step by step, together with the industry and for the industry. Letizia Elia, CEO Basel Tourismus, tells us why in an interview.
Letizia Elia, what does the current planning around hotel allotments for Basilia Jewellery & Watch Fair look like, and what can exhibitors and visitors expect?
We have secured an attractive allotment of more than 2,500 hotel rooms, which will shortly be available via the official booking platform. With different categories, styles and price points, there will be suitable options for a wide range of needs.
What impact will Basilia Jewellery & Watch Fair have on Basel's hotel industry, particularly in terms of pricing and availability?
Basel's hospitality sector strongly supports Basilia. In close cooperation with our hotels, we have secured attractive rates for the official allotment, comparable to those offered for major congresses in Basel.
What role does an international jewellery and watch fair play for Basel as a tourism destination?
Basilia is highly relevant for Basel as a tourism destination. Fairs have been part of the city's DNA since 1471, when Emperor Frederick III granted Basel the privilege to hold fairs. Welcoming the international watch and jewellery industry to Basel every year builds on this long tradition while creating tourism value and strengthening the city's international profile.
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