Chairman’s Message-Gem Talk October 2008

Reproduced with kind permission from the National Gem and Jewellery Authority

The gem, diamond and jewellery sector has recorded an overall growth of 16% during the first eight months of 2008 earning a revenue of USD 347.5 million in comparison with the corresponding figure of USD 298.6 million in 2007.

Hon. Dr Sarath Amunugama ,Minister of Enterprise Development and Investment Promotion has taken steps to appoint two key figures from Japan and China respectively to promote Sri Lanka gems and jewellery on a global scale . We firmly beleive that their experience and knowledge would be of immense benefit to enhance our image in Japan and China in particular and globally in general.

The M.O.U signed between Sri Lanka Gem and Jewellery Association and the Gem and Jewellery Trade Association in China would pave the way for increased forward business linkages with chinese counterparts .

A scheme introduced to offer concessionary finance for the Gem and Jewellery industry through the Lankaputhra Development Bank; with the active participation of the ‘NGJA’ would undoubtedly enable the ‘SME’ sector to secure financial assistance to expand their operations.

The economic downturn experienced by our leading importing countries have prompted us to look actively at other markets such as India ,Russia and the Middle East.

I am happy to state that the National Gem and Jewellery Authority continues to play the role of a facilitator while upholding the best interests of all the stakeholders.

Hasitha Tillekeratne

Chairman,

National Gem and Jewellery Authority

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