Sri Lanka Gem and Jewelry Association aims to elevate Sri Lanka’s gem and jewelry advantage
The Morning: The Sri Lanka Gem and jewelry Association (SLGJA), the apex body for the country’s gem and jewelry industry, was established in October 2002 by uniting the Sri Lanka Gem Traders’ Association, Sri Lanka jewelry Manufacturing Exporters’ Association, Sri Lanka Lapidarists’ and Exporters’ Association, and the Sri Lanka Jewelers’ and Gem Merchants’ Federation under one banner.
The SLGJA recently celebrated over two decades of unwavering commitment to fostering innovation, sustainability, and global recognition within Sri Lanka’s gem and jewelry industry.
Built on a vision to empower Sri Lanka’s gem and jewelry industry through innovation and sustainability par excellence, the SLGJA aims to generate global recognition while upholding the rich heritage for future generations.
The association’s mission is to elevate Sri Lanka’s gem and jewelry industry through ethical practices, facilitate market access, advocate sustainable sourcing, and nurture talent for the industry’s continued growth, global competitiveness, and socioeconomic contribution.
SLGJA Vice President Operations/COO Firaz Hameed shared his thoughts, stating: “As an association that represents Sri Lanka, the SLGJA has always put the needs of the country before its needs. As the voice for Sri Lanka’s gem and jewelry industry, the SLGJA supports its members and advocates on behalf of the industry before the Government and other authorities.”
SLGJA Head of Admin and Projects Roshen Weereratne stated: “Over the years, the SLGJA has received accolades and honors on local and global platforms. These awards celebrate the association’s dedication to expanding the reach of the gem and jewelry industry worldwide.”
Since its inception, the SLGJA has been instrumental in uniting all sectors of the industry, from miners to artisans, wholesalers, retailers, exporters, lapidarists, heat-treaters, and more, under one influential banner. This collective strength enables the association to address industry challenges collectively and implement strategic initiatives for the benefit of all stakeholders.
The SLGJA has four segments – Gem, jewelry, Lapidary, and Promotional. In terms of its membership, the SLGJA consists of members from across the island. A rigorous and thorough screening process is conducted by the Executive Committee of the SLGJA when new members are considered.
Some of the SLGJA’s main focuses are on coordinating policy matters, budgets, etc. with State agencies. The SLGJA also promotes Sri Lanka’s gem and jewelry industry internationally, at events such as the Dubai Expo and more.
For nearly three decades, the FACETS Sri Lanka Gem and jewelry Exhibition, which was initiated in 1991, has been the centerpiece of the SLGJA calendar. Over the years, FACETS has provided SMEs a prominent platform to showcase their products and expand globally. This annual event has become a cornerstone for industry players, fostering collaboration, innovation, and international partnerships. FACETS 2024 will be held from 6-8 January 2024 at the Cinnamon Grand Hotel in Colombo.
As SLGJA celebrates over 20 years in existence, it reaffirms its commitment to being the apex body for gem and jewelry in Sri Lanka. The association will continue to build upon its rich legacy, fostering innovation, sustainability, and global recognition within the industry.
OSL take:
Sri Lanka’s gem and jewelry industry is being promoted by local authorities to become one of the country’s key revenue generators in a few years. The government of Sri Lanka has also called on the industry to expand and diversify by offering various incentive schemes to promote the industry locally. Sri Lanka’s strong trade ties with many foreign countries provides a boost for gem and jewelry related exports. Sri Lanka’s gems, also known as Gems of Ceylon, has been synonymous with quality great value. The growing business potential in Sri Lanka’s gem and jewelry industry is evident by the interest shown by foreign businesses/investors to enter the industry while local businesses engaged in the industry are also looking at expanding operations. Local export authorities meanwhile have launched several promotional campaigns overseas to promote local gems and jewelry. Foreign businesses/investors could therefore confidently explore the expanding opportunities in Sri Lanka’s gem and jewelry industry.
| Article Code : | VBS/AT/20231207/Z_1 |