The Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI) President Ahsan Zafar Bakhtawari praised the government’s recent initiative to create a comprehensive strategy for gemstone mining in Gilgit-Baltistan. The goal of this strategy is to reduce gemstone wastage and increase exports, according to a press release issued on Monday. Authorities have been given one month to develop this plan, which is aimed at conserving resources and generating foreign exchange for the country.
Bakhtawari also expressed support for the government’s decision to launch a pilot project in the region. This project aims to bring gemstone mining, cutting, and value addition up to international standards, which could further enhance the industry’s prospects. He noted that the ICCI is committed to boosting economic activity in Pakistan by improving the ease of doing business and tapping into the country’s untapped tourism potential.
He stressed the importance of utilizing Pakistan’s extensive gemstone reserves, especially in the northern and northwestern regions, which are rich in valuable stones such as peridot, aquamarine, topaz, ruby, and emerald. Bakhtawari also highlighted a key issue: 80 percent of Pakistan’s gemstone exports are in raw form. He emphasized the need for internationally recognized certifications to help develop the industry, increase exports, and create more job opportunities in the country.
