Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif emphasised on Monday the need to harness Pakistan’s gemstone reserves to increase exports and generate foreign exchange.

He chaired a high-level meeting on the promotion of precious stones and minerals, calling for collaboration between the federal government, provinces, Azad Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan.

Speaking at the meeting, Shehbaz Sharif stressed that Pakistan’s gemstone sector holds untapped potential. “Foreign exchange can be earned from gemstone exports only by working together,” he said, urging joint efforts at both provincial and federal levels.

The premier also highlighted the importance of consulting world-renowned experts to help establish gemstone centers in Islamabad, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Azad Kashmir.

A special focus will be on modernizing the gemstone industry with advanced equipment and technology. The Islamabad Gemstone Center, to be located on Shahrah-e-Dastur, is expected to be completed by August 2027, providing international-standard facilities for processing and export.

Shehbaz Sharif stressed that value addition at these centers is key to increasing exports and maximizing profits from Pakistan’s natural reserves.

Stakeholder engagement and Ssientific planning

Officials briefed participants on ongoing steps to promote the industry, including four sessions held to consult stakeholders on the new gemstone policy.

Work has also begun on a geo-fencing scientific roadmap to systematically map and utilize gemstone reserves across the country.

The Prime Minister directed all relevant departments to coordinate closely with provincial governments, Azad Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan to ensure a cohesive approach to the gemstone industry.