Govt to Set Up Gemstone Centers to Boost Exports

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has approved the establishment of three centers of excellence to boost the production and export of precious gemstones in Pakistan.

Chairing a high-level meeting, the premier directed authorities to align the country’s gemstone mining and processing sector with international standards and introduce policy measures to enhance exports.

He highlighted that Pakistan possesses abundant natural resources, including valuable gemstones, and stressed that the sector holds strong export potential if local resources are effectively utilized.

Officials informed the meeting that the centers will provide international-standard training in gemstone cutting, polishing, and preparation for jewelry, aiming to improve quality and competitiveness in global markets.

The government has already identified land for two centers in Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir, while work is underway to finalize a location in Islamabad.

The prime minister directed the Ministry of Planning to prepare a comprehensive strategy to increase gemstone exports and emphasized maintaining transparency throughout the process.

Officials also revealed that Pakistan will host its first international gemstone exhibition in July, while training programs in collaboration with Sri Lanka and China are underway to develop skilled manpower.

Additionally, the Ministry of Petroleum is promoting modern mining techniques to minimize wastage, with around 1,000 individuals currently receiving training in internationally compliant practices.

The initiative marks a significant step towards strengthening Pakistan’s gemstone industry and increasing its share in the global market.