The government has announced plans to establish specialised gemstone exports hubs aimed at increasing the value of Pakistan’s natural resources and boosting international trade, officials said.
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Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif chaired a high-level meeting in Islamabad to review progress and align the country’s gemstone mining and processing sector with global standards. He emphasised that Pakistan possesses significant reserves of precious and semi-precious stones, which can contribute substantially to export growth if properly processed and marketed.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has expressed a strong commitment to modernizing Pakistan’s gemstone mining and processing sector in line with international standards, aiming to significantly increase exports through value addition.
He chaired a high-level review meeting on the… pic.twitter.com/Z3ydiERKsr
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Officials informed the meeting that three centres of excellence are being set up to provide training in gemstone cutting, polishing, and preparation for jewellery. These facilities are intended to bring local production up to international quality standards, enabling Pakistan to compete more effectively in global markets.
Land has already been identified for the centres in Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir, while work is underway to finalise a suitable location in Islamabad. The government aims to ensure transparency in the establishment and operation of these centres, with strict oversight mechanisms in place.
The prime minister directed the Ministry of Planning to develop a comprehensive strategy to enhance gemstone exports by maximising the use of domestic resources. The plan is expected to outline steps for improving mining practices, strengthening supply chains, and increasing the value addition of raw stones.
Officials also shared that Pakistan will host its first international gemstone exhibition in July, which is expected to attract global buyers and investors. Additionally, collaborative initiatives with countries such as China and Sri Lanka are underway to train skilled workers in advanced gemstone processing techniques.
The meeting was further briefed on efforts to promote efficient mining practices that reduce wastage and involve local communities. Around 1,000 individuals are being trained in modern, internationally compliant mining methods.
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Authorities believe these initiatives could significantly increase exports, create jobs, and position Pakistan as a competitive player in the global gemstone market.