The gems and jewellery sector can play a vital role in economy of Pakistan, contributing immensely in earning of foreign exchange and providing employment opportunities. There is need to focus on non-conventional sectors to increase exports of the country. Our industry has huge potential for value addition and profitability but due to lack of apprehension, this industry is far below our regional competitors, who are engaged in the mining, cutting/polishing and trading of gemstones. This was stated by Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI) President Malik Shahid Saleem while addressing a press conference on Tuesday. He informed that RCCI was going to organise the three-day 2nd Gems and Jewellery Exhibition from August 23 in Islamabad. He said that the exhibition would provide opportunity to the businessmen to showcase the best of Pakistani gemstones, diamonds, jewellery, watches and mineral specimens from across the country. Giving details, the RCCI chief said that the main purpose of this expo was to attract foreign investment in non-conventional sectors like gems and jewellery and to promote small and medium enterprise (SME). There will more than 50 stalls of different items including precious stones, gems, ornaments and silver, gold and diamond jewellery. A technical convention with respect to cutting, polishing and certification of gems will also be held on the sidelines of the Expo. He also demanded for an Expo centre in Rawalpindi for the display and exhibition of Gems stones. Pakistan is a country with a population of more than 200 million people and a rich tradition of craftsmanship in jewellery manufacturing. Skilled/semi-skilled labour force is available at relatively lower rates, which offers a comparative advantage to the country. Their skill enhancement through training would lead to greater competitiveness, he added.