The Pakistan government has decided to establish three centres of excellence to improve gemstone processing and increase exports, as part of broader efforts to align the sector with international standards.
Chairing a high-level review meeting, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif directed authorities to formulate policy measures aimed at enhancing the export of locally sourced precious stones. He said Pakistan possesses significant natural resource potential, particularly in gemstones, which can be leveraged to boost export revenues.
Officials informed the meeting that the planned centres would provide international-standard training in cutting, polishing, and preparation of gemstones for jewellery. Locations have been identified in Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir, while a third site is being finalised in Islamabad.
The prime minister emphasized transparency in the establishment of these facilities and tasked the Ministry of Planning with preparing a comprehensive strategy to accelerate gemstone exports. The plan is expected to be presented in the coming weeks.
The meeting was also told that Pakistan will host its first international gemstone exhibition in July, and training initiatives are being developed in collaboration with Sri Lanka and China to build skilled manpower in advanced gemstone processing.
Additionally, the Ministry of Petroleum briefed the prime minister on ongoing efforts to improve mining practices and reduce wastage. Around 1,000 individuals are currently being trained in internationally compliant extraction techniques, with projects being implemented in consultation with local communities.
Sharif directed authorities to expedite the development of a detailed roadmap to enhance productivity and increase exports from the gemstone sector.