Socrate Aman Rana, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority (SMEDA), assured representatives from the gems and jewellery sector of his full support to modernize the industry according to global standards. Speaking at a meeting with a 15-member delegation from the Lahore Division Sarafa and Jewellers Association (LDS&JA) and the Gold and Gems Art Promotion Council of Pakistan (GGAPCP), Rana promised to use all available resources to support the sector. SMEDA, he said, would also collaborate with the associations to develop programs for technical and financial consultations.
Aman Rana emphasized that the current government is prioritizing the development of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) more than previous administrations. He added that funds have been allocated at both provincial and federal levels, which jewellers can access by meeting specific requirements. SMEDA also plans to provide support for various training programs and easy loan schemes for jewellers, based on recommendations from the associations.
Muhammad Ahmed, Chairman of the Lahore Division Sarafa and Jewellers Association and President of the Gold and Gems Art Promotion Council of Pakistan, highlighted the need for international-standard labs, as India earns billions by adding value to its gems. He pointed out the lack of such facilities in Pakistan, urging the government to address this gap. In response, the SMEDA CEO assured full support in establishing an international-grade lab. Rana also stressed the need for effective marketing and branding of the gems and jewellery sector, both locally and globally, and promised SMEDA’s help in developing relevant programs.
Nasir Arif Janjua, Director of Strategic Research and E-commerce Wing of the GGAPCP, informed the SMEDA CEO that the council has already begun bringing the gems and jewellery sector into the domestic e-commerce market, with the first program already completed. SMEDA’s CEO revealed that the authority is working on a comprehensive e-commerce initiative that could benefit the entire sector, including gems and jewellery.
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