BANGKOK, Sept 13: Federal Minister for Industries, Production and Special Initiatives Jehangir Khan Tareen said on Wednesday the government aimed to enhance the export of gems and jewellery from $23 million to $500 million through skill development, market access and tapping its rich potential in the country.

He was talking to newsmen after inaugurating the Pakistani pavilion here at the 38th Bangkok Gems and Jewellery International Fair--2006.

Pakistan has set up 22 stalls at the exhibition. The country also participated in the exhibition held in 2005 and attracted a large number of people.

Mr Jehangir said that Pakistan hoped to earn $10 million from this year's exhibition. The country would continue to participate in such exhibitions in future too, he added.—APP