SLGJA calls for policy reforms to revitalise SL’s gem and jewellery industry

An exhibitor showing President Anura Kumara Dissanayake some of the gems on display while (left) FACETS 2025 Chairman and SLGJA President Akram Cassim (right to President) and other officials look on.

 Pic by Waruna Wanniarachchi

By Nishel Fernando

The Sri Lanka Gem and Jewellery Association (SLGJA) has called for urgent policy reforms to accelerate growth and restore global competitiveness within the sector, aiming to once again establish Sri Lanka as ‘Ratnadeepa’ - the Island of Gems – the Jewel of Asia.

SLGJA President Akram Cassim emphasised the industry’s immense potential to become a significant foreign exchange earner for Sri Lanka, while also creating employment opportunities across the island.

“Policy changes have, in some cases, driven businesses to relocate overseas. The critical need is for policy reforms to streamline regulatory processes, reduce operational challenges, and improve the overall ease of doing business. High taxation and rigid import-export regulations are among the most pressing concerns,” he stated. 
Cassim made these remarks at the inauguration of FACETS Sri Lanka 2025, Asia’s leading gem and jewellery exhibition, in Colombo last Saturday. President Anura Kumara Dissanayake inaugurated the 31st edition of the exhibition, organised by the SLGJA in collaboration with the National Gem and Jewellery Authority (NGJA) and the Export Development Board (EDB).

Cassim highlighted the untapped potential for closer integration with the tourism sector. By partnering with Sri Lanka Tourism and SriLankan Airlines, he pointed out that the industry could offer unique experiences to every tourist visiting the island.

“Sri Lanka remains one of the world’s leading sources of fine sapphires and a treasure trove of over 50 varieties of coloured gemstones. Our island’s gem and jewellery legacy is steeped in mystery, magic, myths, and legends, complemented by centuries of craftsmanship and skill. This legacy deserves to be shared with the world, and tourism is a powerful avenue for doing so,” he added.
He proposed a ‘Sapphire Experience’ for tourists, celebrating Sri Lanka’s 2,500-year legacy of producing the finest Blue Sapphires.

Cassim urged industry stakeholders to embrace the uniqueness of the Sri Lankan Sapphire by working together to re-brand the nation as ‘Ratnadeepa’.

“Together, we can promote all segments of society from the mine to market-creating opportunities across the value chain from the Miners of Ratnapura, the Gem Cutters of Beruwela, the Silversmiths of Galle, the Gem & Jewellery Museums of Kandy, the Jewellery Boutiques of Colombo. Let’s create a Sapphire Shopping Experience that entices every tourist visiting this island to own a piece of its beauty,” he elaborated.
The industry remains optimistic about collaborating with the new government and relevant authorities to establish a business-friendly environment for the gem and jewellery sector. The primary objective of this year’s exhibition is to create business opportunities with traders, exporters, and industry professionals worldwide, with the ambition of exceeding US$1 billion in gem and jewellery exports.

Inspired by President Dissanyake’s call for unity, progress, and shared responsibility, FACETS 2025 Chairman Armil Sammoon noted that FACETS 2025 embraces the ideals of renewal and transformation. “Together, we aim to uplift rural communities, foster innovation, and embed ethical practices that honour our people and our land,” he said.
See FACETS Pictorial 

Sri Lanka’s gem and jewellery come under fresh spotlight as FACETS 2025 kicks off