The Pakistani government has announced plans to create a dedicated “Gem and Jewelry City” in the capital, Islamabad, as part of its strategy to promote the country’s gemstone industry and attract foreign investment. Pakistan is home to valuable gemstone reserves, especially in the northern and northwestern regions, where high-quality stones like peridot, aquamarine, topaz, ruby, and emerald are found.
Currently, Pakistan produces 18 types of gemstones, with 178 major mining licenses issued. However, 80 percent of the country’s gemstone exports are in raw form, according to state media reports.
The decision to establish the Gem and Jewelry City was made following a meeting of the Prime Minister’s Committee on Precious Stones. The committee, which met in Islamabad, was chaired by Industries and Production Minister Rana Tanveer Hussain, with key officials including Communications Minister Aleem Khan and Commerce Minister Jam Kamal also present.
During the meeting, it was decided that an authority would be set up to manage the use of precious stones more effectively. The government also plans to establish a Gemstone Export Processing Center to encourage foreign investment in the sector. In addition, jewelry and gemstone centers will be set up at international airports across the country to promote exports.
Earlier this year, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif highlighted the gemstone sector’s economic potential, noting a 47 percent increase in the export of pearls and precious stones to China in 2023. In August, the Prime Minister directed authorities to develop a strategy for gemstone mining in the Gilgit-Baltistan region, aiming to reduce wastage and increase export revenue.
This initiative is expected to enhance Pakistan’s position in the global gemstone market and contribute to the country’s economic growth.
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