Cabinet nod for online ordering of gems

In a move to promote the gem and jewellery sector, a gazette notification for ordering gems worth up to US$ 3000 online received Cabinet approval this week.

Approval was also given to reduce the 0.5 percent fee charged by the Gem and Jewellery Authority to 0.25 percent.

Furthermore, discussions are also underway to resume a gem mining project in Rathnapura that was suspended due to a protest.

According to the State Minister of Gem and Jewellery Lohan Ratwatte, the government is exploring the possibility of allowing the general public to engage in the gem mining business by way of establishing a gem licensing system in the Elahera area.