The untiring efforts of the President of Center of Pakistan and International Relations (COPAIR) Ms Amna Malik for advocating the institutionalization of Gemstone Industry and developing the nascent sector for ameliorating the country’s economy resulted in creation of a Prime Minister’s Task Force. The Task Force on Gems & Jewelry held its first meeting in Islamabad on 17th September where different means to exploit the full potential of this sector and active participation of all stakeholders for increased exports were discussed.
Task Force Chairman Engineer Gul Asghar Khan highlighted the existing potential of gemstones in the country, problems being faced by the industry and importance to develop an investor-friendly environment to realize the real worth of these natural endowments, a Petroleum Division news release said. During the meeting, Eng. Gul Asghar Khan reiterated the vision of PM Imran Khan to enhance the exports of gemstones and jewelry to its optimum level.
The Task Force, mandated to coordinate and facilitate the development of gems and jewelry sector, consists of an international-level industrial experts including Focal Person Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis & Human Resource Development Atif Iqbal, Co-Chairman of Task Force/CEO Aqua Gems Zeeshan Khan, Director General (Minerals) Petroleum Division, Provincial Secretaries of Mines & Minerals Departments from gemstone rich provinces, Members from the Academic circle, business community, Ministries of Commerce and Industries & Production, State Bank of Pakistan, Federal Board of Revenue, Board of Investment and Capital Development Authority.
The body underlined the need for introducing ease of doing business in the sector, one-window operation for the investors and development of a model Gemstone & Jewelry City in Islamabad.
The participants presented their views on the economic significance and employment generation linked with this sector in rural areas and facilitation required for the sector’s growth to enhance its contribution in exports. They also appreciated the initiative of the Government to gather all relevant stakeholders on one forum to discuss the issues of the gemstones sector and resolve them through coordinated efforts and uniformed policy interventions. The business groups also highlighted the importance of regulating the e-commerce of gemstones as well as facilitation for their trade. The Task Force committed to present their recommendations within 60 days.
Ms Amna Malik and her group has already been awarded by former SAPM Firdos Ashiq Awan for showcasing the gems and jewelry and actively advocating for the accreditation of the nascent industry in Pakistan.