NPO Pakistan Hosts Gemstone Workshop to Boost Productivity

The National Productivity Organization (NPO) Pakistan, in partnership with the Asian Productivity Organization (APO) Japan, is set to host a four-day international workshop in Islamabad focusing on enhancing the value addition of gemstone products to meet international standards and boost productivity in APO member states. The workshop, commencing on April 22, will bring together 18 participants from countries such as Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Mongolia, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Vietnam, along with representatives from APO member nations. Industry experts from Thailand will lead sessions aimed at reviewing global standards for gemstone products, imparting knowledge on cutting, polishing, designing, and heating techniques, and sharing insights on best practices and technological advancements in the gemstone value chain.

Pakistan is blessed with a rich reserve of gemstones, positioning it prominently in the global mineral market. The country boasts some of the most coveted colored gemstones, including Emerald, Ruby, Sapphire, Topaz, Aquamarine, and Tourmaline. The northern and northwestern regions of Pakistan, enveloped by the Hindukush, Himalaya, and Karakorum mountain ranges, are particularly abundant in mineral deposits. Notable gemstone hubs include the Sawat valley, known for its deep green Emeralds, and Katlang, renowned for rare pink Topaz. Gemstones are predominantly found in regions such as Swat, Dir, Mansehra, Kohistan, Peshawar in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, Chilas, Hunza, Shigar, Baltistan in Gilgit Baltistan and AJK, and Kharan, Chaman in Baluchistan Province.