Islamabad: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed a comprehensive strategy to modernize Pakistan’s gemstone mining and processing sector. The government plans to establish three Centres of Excellence to boost exports and align the industry with international standards. The initiative aims to unlock the country’s natural resource potential and strengthen export earnings.
The decision was reviewed in a high-level meeting chaired by the prime minister on the development of the gemstone sector. Officials discussed upgrading cutting, polishing, and jewellery manufacturing processes. The prime minister emphasized improving export performance through value addition and better processing techniques.
Read more: PM directs establishment of gemstone centres to boost exports
Authorities informed the meeting that three Centres of Excellence are being established to provide international-standard training. The centres will be set up in Gilgit-Baltistan, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, and Islamabad. These facilities aim to equip workers with modern skills in mining and gemstone processing.
The government is also planning Pakistan’s first international gemstone exhibition in July 2026. Training programs with support from Sri Lanka and China will further enhance technical expertise in the sector. Additionally, efforts are underway to introduce modern mining methods to reduce waste and improve efficiency.
Read more: Panel advances roadmap for value-added gemstone exports
Officials said around 1,000 people are being trained in global-standard mining practices under the initiative. The prime minister directed timely completion and transparency in all projects. He stressed turning the gemstone sector into a key pillar of Pakistan’s export economy.