ISLAMABAD, April 27– Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday directed authorities to formulate a comprehensive strategy to enhance Pakistan’s gemstone exports, emphasizing the country’s untapped potential in precious stones and value-added processing.
Chairing a high-level meeting, the prime minister said Pakistan is endowed with abundant natural resources, including gemstones, and stressed that the sector could significantly contribute to export growth if aligned with international standards.
He tasked the Ministry of Planning, Development and Special Initiatives with preparing a detailed roadmap to boost exports of processed gemstones, with a focus on improving mining practices, cutting, polishing, and global market access.
Officials briefed the meeting on plans to establish three Centers of Excellence aimed at providing international-standard training in gemstone cutting and polishing. Sites have already been identified in Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir, while efforts are underway to finalize a location in Islamabad.
Shehbaz emphasized transparency in the development of these centers and called for expedited progress on project implementation.
The meeting was also informed that Pakistan plans to host its first international gemstone exhibition in July 2026, aimed at showcasing local resources and attracting foreign buyers and investors.
Collaboration initiatives with Sri Lanka and China are underway to train skilled manpower in advanced gemstone processing techniques, while around 1,000 individuals are already being trained in internationally compliant mining practices.
Officials from the Ministry of Energy (Petroleum Division) also briefed the prime minister on efforts to promote efficient mining methods aimed at reducing wastage and improving yield.
The meeting was attended by senior cabinet members including Ahsan Iqbal and Musadik Malik, as well as Jameel Ahmad and other officials.
Shehbaz directed authorities to accelerate the preparation of the export strategy, underscoring the importance of leveraging local resources to achieve sustainable economic growth and improve Pakistan’s export competitiveness in global gemstone markets.