Training for Pakistani gem and jewellery sector
The local gem and jewellery industry has trained foreign
industrialists on gem cutting and gem polishing for the first time in
Sri Lanka. Vice Chairman of Sri Lanka Gem and Jewellery Association
Donald Perera told Daily News Business they have started conducting
training courses for Pakistan industrialists on gem cutting and
polishing.
The courses conducted by the Gem and Jewellery Institute and this
institute is a public and private sector initiative.
At the initial stage they will provide training for 20 Pakistan
industrialists for three months. This training programme is initiated
under the trade agreement with Sri Lanka and Pakistan.
The Pakistan Government will provide funds for the project, Perera
said.
“We expect to train 100 Pakistan industrialists. The Pakistan gem and
jewellery industry is keen on seeking assistance from Sri Lanka to
develop their industry. Last April a team of advisors from Sri Lanka
went to Pakistan to consult the Pakistan industry,” he said.
Meanwhile Lustre Sri Lanka 2008 national gem and jewellery show will
be held on March 28, 29 and 30 2008 at the BMICH.
The show is organised by the Sri Lanka Gem and Jewellery Association.
The main objective of organising this show is to extend assistance
and support small and medium scale manufacturers, educate local
customers on the latest international trends.
“Through this show the Association also expects to encourage
manufacturers and designers to utilise a wider range of available gem
stones in their products and obtain information and seek assistance from
Government and related organisations to enhance the local industry,” he
said.
“We have made arrangements to conduct special seminars for customers
on using gems. We have noticed that knowledge among public on using
gemstones is at a low level.”
“Though this is a national event we are targeting foreign buyers too.
We are expecting foreign buyers from India and Thailand.”
The Association has made plans to promote foreign buyers in these
regions, Perera said.
There will be 60 exhibitors for the show and organisers expect to
have the show as a national event.
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