SLGJA welcomes Govt. reforms to boost gem and jewellery industry

Friday, 15 August 2025 05:44 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

The Sri Lanka Gem and Jewellery Association (SLGJA) yesterday hailed the Government’s newly introduced reforms for the sector as a transformative step that will boost trade competitiveness and open new growth opportunities.

Central to the changes is a Gazette outlining a streamlined procedure for the import of rough gemstones, a move the SLGJA said will address a longstanding industry bottleneck by improving access to raw materials, enhancing transparency, and aligning Sri Lanka’s practices with leading global trading hubs.

“This is a milestone moment for the industry and a strong signal of the Government’s commitment to positioning Sri Lanka as a competitive player in the global gem and jewellery trade,” the SLGJA noted, crediting the collaborative efforts that led to the reform.

As the apex body of the industry, the SLGJA extended its appreciation to President Anura Kumara Disanayake for spearheading the initiative, as well as to Industry and Entrepreneurship Development Minister Sunil Handunneththi, the National Gem and Jewellery Authority (NGJA) Chairman, the Export Development Board (EDB) Chairman, and Ministry Secretaries for their contributions.

The Association believes the new measures will not only stimulate exports, but also promote sustainable growth and attract fresh investment into the sector. “The move is unlocking new potential for Sri Lanka’s gem and jewellery trade regionally and globally,” the SLGJA said.