(IDEX Online) - The Bangkok Gems & Jewelry Fair went ahead despite coronavirus fears, although visitor numbers were down sharply from 14,000 last February to under 10,000.It was the only gems and jewelry trade show to take place in Asia so far this year, following a number of high-profile cancellations including the Hong Kong's International Diamond, Gem & Pearl Show and International Jewellery Show.Organizers of the Bangkok show, from 25 to 29 February, said many exhibitors and visitors had pulled out in the days leading up to the event.Some buyers from key trading partners including China, United Arab Emirates, and Bahrain, were unable to attend because of travel restrictions."Buyers were confident in our screening (pictured above) and preventive measures for COVID-19 which matched international standards," said Somdet Susomboon, Director-General of Thailand's Department of International Trade Promotion."However, during the show, news on the spread of the virus had become more severe both in Thailand and abroad, causing some visitors to delay their travel plans."