Pakistan is abundant in gems and minerals. We are blessed with a rich geographical landscape possessing an immense array of precious and semi-precious gemstones. Despite this natural wealth, the potential of the gemstone industry in country is unfortunately untapped and unheeded.
Empowering the gemstone sector in the country is not just about unlocking the economic potential of these precious stones but also about promotion of local craftsmen, generating job opportunities and contributing to the general progress of Pakistan.
This sector should be affiliated with sustainable development goals of Pakistan. Environmental conservation and mindful mining practices must be prioritized to ensure responsible gemstone extraction and preserving the ecological balance of the regions where these precious stones are found.
Having possession of the fifth largest reservoir of gemstones in the world, Pakistan gemstone industry has the potential to become a significant contributor to Pakistan’s economy. We export gemstones worth at least $3.7 billion annually with the largest contributor being All Pakistan’s commercial exporters Alliance (APCEA ). The existence of women in Pakistan’s Gemstone sector is next to none. A very meagre percentage of women are in this industry and this is one of most untouched industry for women to participate and earn a livelihood. APCEA has introduced an unprecedented women empowerment committee initiative for inclusion of women in this sector in 2024. With latest and suitable investment and infrastructure growth, we can increase and modernize the gemstone extraction, processing, and export capabilities, paving way for generating significant revenues. To achieve this pinnacle, Government and Private sector must come together to encourage and empower this industry.
Promotion and government assistance can create a ripple effect by bridging employment prospects at many levels from mining, polishing to supply chain, miners and lapidaries to traders and vendors. By providing training and education in gemstone extraction, cutting, and processing techniques, Pakistan can foster and enlarge a skilled workforce that enhances value to the gems and improves the quality of finished products, making them more competitive in the global market particularly advancing local communities in gem-rich regions namely KPK province, Baluchistan, Gilgit Baltistan and Azad Kashmir. We need to emphasize training and relaxed rules for export by government.
A robust gemstone industry can place Pakistan as a competitive player in the international stage. By adopting ethical mining practices, confirming transparency, and embracing quality control, Pakistan’s gemstones can attract buyers worldwide, fostering a positive image for the country in the global gemstone trade.
Conclusion:
The need to empower Pakistan’s gemstone industry is not only rooted in economic deliberations but to bring about holistic expansion. By investing in infrastructure, skill development, and sustainability, Pakistan can harness the true potential of its gemstone resources, leading to growth, job creation, and a constructive impact on relevant markets. Pakistan’s gemstone industry has the power to glow radiantly as a symbol of economic prosperity on the global stage and productive steps should be taken to make it a reality.
Ayesha Jehangir Khan
Award Winning Entrepreneur, Humanitarian
Chairperson Women Empowerment Committee
APCEA
Email: [email protected]
