Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Government Boosts Gemstone Sector

The government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is taking significant steps to boost the gemstone sector by formalizing it as an export industry. A decision has been made to transform the gemstone cluster at Namak Mandi into a state-of-the-art Gems Processing & Export Centre. A recent high-level meeting chaired by Special Assistant to Chief Minister Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Commerce and Technical Education Abdul Karim Tordher discussed plans to redesign and relocate the Gem Export Center to a more spacious and internationally compliant facility.

Key stakeholders including government officials, industry representatives, and members of relevant departments deliberated on policy decisions aimed at enhancing the gemstone sector. The meeting outlined the establishment of a Gems Processing and Export Centre in Peshawar equipped with advanced amenities such as a Certification Lab, International Mail Office, Bank, and Customs Office. Additionally, efforts will be made to streamline the issuance of necessary permits for foreign investors.

The Gems Centre will also feature a Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Iran Desk to facilitate regional trade. It is expected to be operational within the next four months. The Federal Export Development Fund has pledged support for organizing an annual Gems Show in the province and ensuring the provision of essential facilities at the new centre.

Special Assistant to the Chief Minister emphasized that the modern Gems Centre will play a pivotal role in boosting economic growth, increasing exports, creating employment opportunities, and generating substantial revenue. Peshawar's strategic importance in the gemstone trade makes the establishment of this center a significant milestone for the economic development of the region.