Akram Cassim re-elected SLGJA President for 2025/2026

Akram Cassim 

The Sri Lanka Gem and Jewellery Association (SLGJA) recently held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) at Amari Hotel Colombo, bringing together a full house of members representing every segment of the gem and jewellery industry. 

The Association’s membership reflects the wide diversity of Sri Lanka’s gem and jewellery value chain, from miners and lapidarists to cutters, exporters, designers, retailers, and global traders, united under one national platform.

Akram Cassim was unanimously re-elected as President of the Association for the year 2025–2026. The AGM underscored the Association’s commitment to strengthening the industry, promoting policy reform, and preparing for the next phase of growth both locally and internationally.

Cassim reflected on the achievements and challenges of the past year and outlined his vision for the coming term.

“Over the past year, together with our Board and membership, we have worked with focus and determination to strengthen the Association, confront challenges, and advance on issues vital to the future of our industry,” he said.

Key highlights included the introduction of the VAT Refund Counter at the airport for tourists and the Customs “Gem Bag” system, marking tangible progress in policy and taxation reforms aimed at improving industry competitiveness. The Association also highlighted its swift response to the American Gem Trade Association (AGTA) radiation issue, which helped safeguard the international reputation of Sri Lankan sapphires.

Cassim also emphasised the sector’s significant contribution to livelihoods, noting that over 600,000 Sri Lankans depend on the gem and jewellery industry from mine to market, reinforcing the need for continued reform and development. Strengthened collaboration with regional associations in Ratnapura and Beruwela was also cited as a key step toward fostering unity and a collective voice on industry concerns.

In addition, the Association completed a major upgrade of its head office, transforming it into a modern, professional hub to better serve members and stakeholders across the value chain.

Among the year’s highlights was the success of FACETS 2025, which once again showcased Sri Lanka’s gemstones and craftsmanship to the world, reinforcing the island’s 2,500-year-old heritage as the “Island of Gems.”

Looking ahead, Cassim announced that the 33rd edition of FACETS Sri Lanka will take place at Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams from 3-5 January 2026. This world-class venue will allow the SLGJA to deliver a bold new vision for the show, offering an elevated experience for exhibitors, buyers, and visitors alike.

He also introduced the Sapphire Sponsorship Circle, which brings together leading exporters and jewellers to uplift and promote FACETS globally, while strengthening youth involvement to ensure the next generation continues to carry forward Sri Lanka’s gem legacy.

Cassim thanked the SLGJA Board, Secretariat, and members for their trust and dedication, acknowledging the collective effort that made the past year’s progress possible.

He also recognised the invaluable support of the Export Development Board (EDB), the Ministry of Industries, and other Government partners, and paid tribute to the late Naveen Sooriarachchi, former Chairman of the National Gem and Jewellery Authority (NGJA), whose support was instrumental in advancing several industry initiatives.

“If the urgently needed reforms are delivered, we have the power not just to transform our trade, but to transform the lives of over 600,000 Sri Lankans who depend on it,” he concluded. “Together, we can ensure that Sri Lanka’s gem and jewellery industry shines even brighter, carrying forward its timeless legacy and securing its rightful place on the global stage.”

The evening concluded with a fellowship event at Amari Colombo, where members celebrated the Association’s achievements with music, fine food, and warm camaraderie — reflecting the spirit of unity that continues to define the SLGJA.

Elected Board for 2025-2026

• President – Akram Cassim

• COO and Secretary – Shezan Mansoor

• Assistant Secretary – Amanda Wijemanne

• Treasurer – Nawrooz Azmi

• Assistant Treasurer – Asfaq Deen

• Vice President (Gems) – Razni Haniffa

• Vice President (Jewellery) – Sellakumar Kandasamy

• Vice President (Lapidary) – Pinsiri Wijepala

• Vice President (Promotions) – Armil Sammoon

• Immediate Past President – Ajward Deen