Government aims to make Ratnapura an international hub for the gem industry
The ‘Gem City Ratnapura International Gem and Jewellery Exhibition 2026’, held from August 31 to September 02 at the Silver Ray Hotel premises in Ratnapura, concluded successfully.
Addressing the closing day of the exhibition, Deputy Minister of Industry Chathuranga Abeysinghe said the significant increase in participation compared to the previous year reflects a renewed revival in Sri Lanka’s gem and jewellery industry.
He emphasized that a key priority of the Government is to transform Ratnapura into a major international hub for the gem industry, by strengthening the entire value chain from gem mining to value addition, manufacturing and exports, while realizing the estimated US$3 billion potential of Sri Lanka’s gem and jewellery sector.
Accordingly, the Government is taking steps to strengthen traceability and global confidence in the industry, simplify import and export procedures, provide the necessary regulations and facilities, develop skills among the younger generation, and expand research and knowledge within the sector.
International entrepreneurs from India, Pakistan, Thailand, the United States, China, Japan and Poland, among other countries, participated in this year’s exhibition. The event also provided an important platform for local entrepreneurs to showcase their products and gain access to international markets.
The Deputy Minister extended his appreciation to the National Gem and Jewellery Authority, Sri Lanka Gem and Jewellery Traders and Miners Association, and all other parties who contributed to the successful organization of the exhibition.
Deputy Minister of Tourism Professor Ruwan Ranasinghe, Members of Parliament, Secretary to the Ministry of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development J.M. Thilaka Jayasundara, government officials, industry representatives and local and international entrepreneurs also participated in the event.
