The Sri Lanka Gem and Jewellery Association (SLGJA) is calling for urgent policy reforms to accelerate the growth of the sector and restore global competitiveness.

SLGJA President Akram Kassim highlighted the huge potential for the sector to become a significant foreign exchange earner for Sri Lanka, while generating employment opportunities across the island.

“Policy changes have in some cases prompted businesses to move overseas. The critical need is to implement policy reforms to streamline regulatory processes, reduce operational challenges and improve the overall ease of doing business. High taxation and stringent import and export regulations are among the most pressing concerns,” he said.
Cassim made these comments while addressing the inaugural ceremony of FACETS Sri Lanka 2025, Asia’s premier gem and jewellery exhibition, held in Colombo last Saturday. The 31st edition of the exhibition, organised by SLGJA in collaboration with the National Gem and Jewellery Authority (NGJA) and the Export Development Board (EDB), was opened by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.

Cassim highlighted the untapped potential of closer integration with the tourism sector. He pointed out that by joining hands with Sri Lanka Tourism and SriLankan Airlines, the industry can offer a unique experience to every tourist visiting the island.

“Sri Lanka is one of the world’s leading sources of fine sapphires and is a treasure trove of over 50 varieties of colourful gemstones. Our island’s gem and jewellery heritage is filled with mystery, magic, myth and legend, complemented by centuries of craftsmanship and skills. This heritage deserves to be shared with the world, and tourism is a powerful avenue for that, he added.
He proposed a ‘Blue Sapphire Experience’ for tourists, celebrating Sri Lanka’s 2,500-year heritage of producing the finest sapphires.

He called on stakeholders in the gem industry to embrace the uniqueness of Sri Lankan sapphires by working together to rebrand the nation as ‘Ratnadeepa’.

“Miners in Ratnapura, gem cutters in Beruwala, silversmiths in Galle, Gem and Jewellery Museums in Kandy, Jewellery shops in Colombo, etc. can be promoted to every segment of society across the value chain. “We will create a Sapphire shopping experience that will entice every tourist to this island to own a piece of its beauty,” he explained.
The industry remains optimistic about working 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 from around the world, with the ambition of gem and jewellery exports exceeding US$1 billion.

Inspired by President Dissanayake’s call for unity, progress and shared responsibilities, FACETS 2025 Chairman Amil Samoon noted that FACETS 2025 embraces the ideals of renewal and transformation. “Together, we aim to uplift rural communities, foster innovation and incorporate ethical practices that respect our people and our land,” he said.