Lankan gems, jewellery glitter at Singapore jewellery show

Minister of Enterprise Development and Investment Promotion Dr. Sarath Amunugama made a strong case for the Sri Lankan gems and jewellery sector stressing the quality of the local products and excellent workmanship during a brief official visit to Singapore recently. Dr. Sarath Amunugama and Minister of State for Trade and Industry of Singapore Lee Y. Shyan were the chief guests on this occasion.

Dr. Amunugama was responding to an invitation by Chairman, Singapore Jewellery Association (SIJ) Cheuen who requested from him that Sri Lanka should participate at the Singapore International Jewellery Show.

Given the importance of this industry to the national economy there was a pavilion at the exhibition that was show casing the Sri Lankan gems and jewellery sector.

The Singapore International Jewellery Show was in its third year with 27 countries and 148 exhibitors represented.

Dr. Amunugama discussed with top level businessmen who are in gem and jewellery trade on ways to boost exports to Singapore and other countries and explore the possibilities of starting joint ventures in Sri Lanka.

At the same time they laid the foundations for a greater integration of gems and jewellery sectors of Sri Lanka and Singapore and the likelihood of a regular participation of a Singapore Pavilion at the Sri Lanka International Gem & Jewellery Show, better known as “FACETS-Sri Lanka”.

Other areas that are likely to be covered are steps to facilitate Sri Lankan dealers who visit Singapore for business purposes to ensure them with a business friendly environment.

A likely result of this event was that Singapore will benefit from a greater supply of fine quality gems from Sri Lanka, as well as gem studded jewellery, and calibrated gemstones. In addition relations will be strengthened by the holding of buyer-seller meetings under the sponsorship of the NGJA.

The regular participation of the Sri Lanka Pavilion, which will give our industry a presence at this important industry trade fair, will further cement these ties.