NGJA launches website, more trading opportunities

A.G. Piyadasa

WEBSITE: National Gem and Jewellery Authority (NGJA) invites local gem and jewellery traders to promote their businesses through Authority’s newly launched website to explore the international market opportunities.

Speaking at the launching ceremony of the new website of NGJA, Chairman NGJA Hasitha Tillekeratne said the e-commence facility available through this website will enable the Sri Lankan traders to offer their gem and jewellery to a wider client base globally.

Internet marketing is customer friendly and the feedback is immediate. The Internet today has become a virtual buyers market, with the buyer deciding what products they want, when they want it and at what price, he said.

The Gem and Jewellery sector has recorded an overall growth of 10 percent during the first half of 2007 in comparison with last year. NGJA also planning to enter into new markets such as Russia and India in 2008.

Minister of Enterprise Development Mano Wijeyratne said they are in the process of venturing into new markets.

Already Azerbaijan one of the former socialist Republics has shown interest in buying our gemstones. We also may be able to lure them to invest in the gem and jewellery sector.

President Mahinda Rajapaksa in his election manifesto has made clear that his vision is to boost the local entrepreneur. Our ministry under the guidance of the Minister Sarath Amunugama has taken bold steps to offer many facilities to the local traders engaged in the gem sector, he said.