Pakistan is Trying Something New: ICCI Lauds Government Initiatives for Developing Gemstone Sector
ISLAMABAD, Aug 19 (APP): President of the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI), Ahsan Zafar Bakhtawari, on Monday, lauded the government’s directives to develop a comprehensive strategy for gemstone mining in Gilgit-Baltistan, aimed at reducing gemstone wastage.
Gemstone Wastage – Selling Rough without Value Added
He noted that authorities had been instructed to devise a strategy for gemstone mining in the Gilgit-Baltistan region within a month, with the goals of minimizing wastage and boosting exports to generate foreign exchange for the country, according to a press release. (see below)
Bakhtawari also welcomed the government’s commitment to launching a pilot project in the region, which will align gemstone mining, cutting, and value addition with international standards.
He highlighted that the ICCI is focused on promoting economic activities in the country by improving the ease of doing business and unlocking its vast tourism potential.
He emphasized the importance of leveraging Pakistan’s significant gemstone reserves, particularly in the northern and northwestern regions, which are rich in high-quality stones such as peridot, aquamarine, topaz, ruby, and emerald.
However, he pointed out that 80% of Pakistan’s gemstone exports are in raw form. This underscores the need for internationally recognized certifications to enhance the industry’s development, boost national exports, and create more employment opportunities.
Tap here to find the original post in Associated Press Pakistan (app.com.pk/business).
Mineral Resources Should be Utilized for Foreign Exchange Generation: Kundi
The Governor of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Faisal Karim Kundi (left), has emphasized the need to utilize province’s mineral resources and natural gifts for generating foreign exchange for the province and the country.
He was talking to General Manager of the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan, Nauman Bashir (right) in Peshawar
The Governor highlighted that mineral related development projects such as the Gem and Geological Institute of Pakistan, Honey Testing Laboratory, and Women Business Incubation Center would open new avenues for provincial development.
He said that these initiatives would help align Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s fruits, minerals, and other commodities with global standards.
Tap here to find the original post in Radio Pakistan.
