The Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) of the Cabinet on Tuesday approved the launch of a national gemstone development policy aimed at tapping billions in unexplored minerals across the country.
The ECC approved the National Policy to Realize Pakistan’s Gemstone Potential 2026–2030, focusing on formalizing the sector, promoting value addition, and introducing modern mining practices.
The policy targets increased exports and regional development, particularly in Gilgit-Baltistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Azad Jammu & Kashmir.
ECC also approved the restructuring of the Pakistan National Shipping Corporation (PNSC) for strengthening exports and industrial competitiveness.
Under the restructuring plan, the government granted in-principle approval for the sale of 30 percent government shareholding in PNSC and transfer of its management control to the National Logistics Corporation (NLC).
The committee agreed that both measures are part of efforts to enhance economic competitiveness, attract investment, and unlock underutilized sectors of the economy.
