Facets 2012 woos new buyers

by Nilma DOLE

There is a big demand in the Chinese market for premium quality Sri Lankan gems, especially blue sapphires, according to exhibitors at the Sri Lanka International Gem and Jewellery Show ‘Facets 2012'.Chairman of the Organising Committee of the premier gem and jewellery exhibition which was held for the 22nd consecutive year, Juzar Adamaly said that this year saw not only repeat international buyers but new ones too. “In addition to China, this year, buyers had come to the exhibition from India, Russia, Kenya, USA, Thailand, Australia, Singapore, UAE, Hong Kong, UK, Norway, Pakistan and for the first time, we are welcoming South Africa too.”

According to the exhibitors, some of the biggest gem profits are churned out by Chinese buyers because they now realise the value of Sri Lankan gems which proved that it was not just the traditional Western market that has shown interest.

The Export Development Board (EDB) has identified gems, diamonds and jewellery sector as a highly potential sector which could be a US$1 b export industry by 2012.

“In achieving the set export target of the industry, capacity building plays a vital told. Recognising this, the EDB has implemented a series of integrated product, design, quality and market development programs for this sector.

We also lend a helping hand to craftsmen and designers to reach international standards in terms of producing high-quality products,” said EDB Chairman, Janaka Ratnayake.

The Chairman of the Sri Lanka Gem and Jewellery Association, Macky Hashim said, “The Sri Lankan government has provided a supportive policy environment and facilities to assist the progressive initiatives of the Gem and Jewellery Industry to meet the international demands.

Among the initiatives are the National Gem Deposit Survey, Branding of Ceylon Sapphires and Ceylon Gem Laboratory to issue internationally recognised certificates and capacity building in the lapidary sector.”

He said that the Association is committed to providing all assistance for the successful progress of this industry to meet the demands of international buyers. “We have also set up a very healthy and strong public-private sector partnership as the Association's mission is for the progress of Sri Lanka,” he said.

The Association has been in the forefront of developing the local gem and jewellery sector to cater to a wide variety of tastes including designer brands.

The CEO of the National Gem and Jewellery Authority, Prasad Galhena said, “Exhibitions of this nature will pave the way for exposure and opportunities for the gem and jewellery industry and to introduce world-renown brands in Sri Lanka.”