The federal government has approved the National Gemstone Policy 2026–2030, aiming to formalize Pakistan’s gemstone sector, boost exports, and tap into an estimated $450 billion worth of precious and semi-precious mineral resources.
Approved by the Economic Coordination Committee (ECC), the policy targets a sector where over 95 percent of gemstone trade currently takes place through informal channels, resulting in low export earnings, weak regulation, and significant foreign exchange losses.
According to the Ministry of Industries and Production, Pakistan is home to some of the world’s richest gemstone deposits but officially exports only $5–7 million worth of gemstones each year, accounting for just 0.3 percent of the global gemstone market.
The government aims to increase annual gemstone exports to $500 million by 2030 through value addition, international certification, better market access, and the formalization of the industry.
A major step under the policy is the creation of a National Gemstone Authority, which will be formed by merging the Pakistan Gems and Jewellery Development Company with its staff and assets. The authority will regulate the sector, maintain a national business registry, oversee certification and traceability, and facilitate trade.
To strengthen export credibility, the government will also establish a National Warranty Office responsible for inspecting, valuing, certifying, and sealing gemstone export consignments. The office will work closely with Pakistan Customs, Pakistan Single Window, banks, and courier companies to simplify exports and reduce trade disputes.
The policy also introduces minimum export price benchmarks and Pakistan-specific Harmonized System (HS) codes to improve trade documentation and discourage under-invoicing. A National Gemstone Business Registry will further connect traders with customs, banking, and certification systems.
To modernize the industry, the government plans to introduce machinery rental pools, demonstration mines, expanded gemstone cutting and polishing facilities, skills development programs, easier access to mining equipment, and controlled access to explosives for licensed miners. It will also encourage the import of rough gemstones and modern processing equipment to enhance local value addition.
In addition, the policy proposes launching a unified Pakistani Gemstone brand backed by international certifications, global marketing campaigns, and participation in international trade exhibitions to strengthen Pakistan’s presence in global markets.
Implementation of the policy will be overseen by a steering committee led by the Minister for Industries and Production, while the National Gemstone Authority is expected to become financially self-sustaining through service charges and regulatory fees over time.
