ISLAMABAD: The Mi­­nistry of Industries and Production on Tues­day forwarded the gemstone policy, with focus on value-addition, to the federal cabinet for approval.

Chairing the meeting of all relevant stakeholders, Special Assistant to Prime Minister on Ind­ustries and Production Haroon Akh­­tar Khan finalised the National Gemstones Policy.

The meeting was atten­ded by Secretary Indus­tries and Production, CEO of Pakistan Stone development company, representatives of foreign and local companies and the provincial mining and minerals departments.

Working gro­ups on import and exp­ort, banking and finance, and return and refund po­licies presented their re­comme­ndations for inc­lusion in the policy framework.

Mr Khan stated that, following extensive consultations with experts, the policy and quality standards have been aligned with international benchmarks.

The policy focuses on ac­­celerating growth, promoting value addition, and transforming the gemsto­nes industry into a competitive export-oriented sector. The meeting noted that the gemstones sector in Pakistan currently suffers from high wastage, limited value addition, and declining exports.

Due to unscientific ex­­t­raction and processing methods, up to 50pc wastage occurs at various stages. Despite enormous potential, gemstone exports have remained limited to $5-7 million in recent years. To stimulate growth, the government will provide targeted financing, streamlined facilitation, and smart incentives for the sector.

Under the National Gemstones Policy, a new Statutory Authority will be established to act as the custodian of the policy, facilitate businesses, and ensure effective inter-agency coordination.

Published in Dawn, December 17th, 2025