Key Takeaways
- The Gold and Gems Art Promotion Council of Pakistan (GGAPCP) has welcomed the establishment of a National Gems Authority.
- Muhammad Ahmed, President of GGAPCP, believes it will significantly enhance gemstone exports and promote Pakistani gems internationally.
- The new authority aims to remove barriers for exporters and artisans, potentially boosting foreign exchange earnings.
The Gold and Gems Art Promotion Council of Pakistan (GGAPCP) has expressed strong support for the federal government’s decision to establish a National Gems Authority. President Muhammad Ahmed stated that this move is 'a historic and highly encouraging step' for Pakistan's gems and jewellery industry.
Ahmed highlighted that despite Pakistan's vast reserves of precious and semi-precious gemstones, the sector has not been able to fully realize its potential due to inadequate policies, lack of standardization, branding, and marketing. He emphasized that the new authority will play a crucial role in enhancing exports and promoting Pakistani gems on an international stage.
According to Ahmed, the National Gems Authority will help remove administrative, technical, and commercial barriers that have hindered gemstone exports. This is expected to result in increased foreign exchange earnings and contribute positively to Pakistan's national economy. He expressed confidence that with modern technology, training, certification, research, and compliance with international standards, the industry can be revived.
Ahmed further noted that due to a lack of effective government policies and inadequate attention, the gems industry had been experiencing a steady decline, forcing many skilled artisans and professionals to leave the sector. He hopes that the new authority will address these issues by providing equal benefits across all provinces and ensuring practical, industry-driven policymaking.
The GGAPCP President also urged the government to establish offices of the National Gems Authority in all provinces so that exporters, traders, and stakeholders can benefit equally from its services. He emphasized the importance of including representatives of the gems and jewellery industry in the authority's governing and advisory bodies to ensure effective implementation of policies.
Ahmed concluded by stating that the establishment of this new authority is a significant step towards reviving Pakistan’s gemstone industry and ensuring it operates under a national identity, which will help in promoting Pakistani gems globally.
The establishment of the Authority will have far-reaching and positive impact on the country's gems sector.
Muhammad Ahmed, President, GGAPCP
The National Gems Authority will significantly enhance Pakistan’s gemstone exports and help promote Pakistani gemstones in international markets under their rightful national identity.
Muhammad Ahmed, President, GGAPCP
