The President and Chief Executive Officer of the National Gem and Jewellery Authority Mr. Viraj de Silva stated that they anticipate generating annual revenue of US$ 2 billion by the year 2025 through the export of gems.
The chairman highlighted that during the initial 7 months of this year, they have already amassed a revenue of US$ 312 million through gem exports. They further project that by the end of this year, the earnings will reach US$ 500 million.
He also focussed attention to the implementation of a programme in accordance with President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s directives, aimed at curbing the illegal export of gems. This illegal export has posed a significant challenge to achieving the US$ 2 billion target.
Consequently, Mr. Viraj de Silva indicated that necessary measures will be promptly taken to facilitate direct gem purchases by foreign buyers through auctions within the country.
These insights were shared by Mr. Viraj De Silva, the Chairman of the National Gem and Jewellery Authority, during his participation in the 101 Katha’ programme produced by the Presidential Media Division.
