Government moves to boost gemstone exports through branding, value addition, training and improved coordination.
Pakistan has stepped up efforts to develop its gemstone industry and introduce Pakistani gemstone brands to international markets, with the government planning dedicated expos in Karachi and Islamabad.
A high-level steering committee meeting on the gemstone sector was held under the chairmanship of Adviser to the Prime Minister on Industries and Production Haroon Akhtar Khan. The meeting reviewed measures aimed at increasing investment, improving value addition, strengthening production and expanding gemstone exports.
Haroon Akhtar said blocks would be identified across different regions of the country for the high-quality extraction of topaz, ruby and other precious and semi-precious gemstones. He stressed that investor-friendly policies and effective implementation would be essential for unlocking the sector’s potential.
The adviser also called for stronger coordination between the federal and provincial governments. Provinces will be taken into confidence as part of efforts to create a more coordinated framework for mining and developing mineral resources.
According to the meeting, work is already underway to digitize data and map mineral resources associated with the gemstone industry. The government plans to focus on value addition, branding and marketing to improve Pakistan’s position in international gemstone markets.
Haroon Akhtar described professional marketing and branding as essential for the sector’s growth. He said Pakistan needs to move beyond raw gemstone exports and develop recognizable local brands capable of competing in global markets.
The government also plans to organize gemstone-related expos in Karachi and Islamabad in the near future. Meanwhile, cooperation with Thailand and Iran is being pursued to support the development and expansion of the sector.
Customs and other relevant departments are working jointly to facilitate gemstone trade, while amendments to HS codes are also being considered with input from the private sector.
The meeting was further informed that around 12,000 people have already received training in the gemstone and jewelry sector. Three additional training programmes are currently underway.
A new gemstone and jewelry training centre is expected to be established in Quetta, while centres of excellence are planned for Gilgit-Baltistan, Azad Kashmir and Islamabad.
The government aims to strengthen skills, encourage value addition and improve export capacity, with branding and international market access expected to play a central role in transforming Pakistan’s gemstone industry.