Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development Sunil Handunneththi conducted observation visit to the ICA GemLab in Bangkok on Sunday (22), to study international standards for gemstone certification.
Accompanied by Dr. S.P. Chaminda, Chairman of the National Gem and Jewellery Authority, and a delegation of senior officials, the Minister explored the facility’s operations as part of a strategic push to modernize Sri Lanka’s domestic gem industry.
In a statement shared on his official social media account following the visit, Handunneththi highlighted the critical need for a locally based, world-class laboratory to mitigate the significant foreign exchange losses currently incurred when Sri Lankan traders send high-value stones to Switzerland or Thailand for reputable certification. “As a sustainable solution to these problems, we hope to establish a laboratory in this country that has the highest global recognition, such as ICA GemLab,” Handunneththi stated. He noted that such a move would allow local industrialists to obtain international-grade certificates within a shorter period and at a lower cost domestically.
Handunneththi emphasized that the absence of a globally recognized local laboratory remains a major obstacle for the industry, often forcing dealers to miss time-sensitive business opportunities due to shipping delays and security risks.
The Minister’s visit to the ICA GemLab serves as a blueprint for his proposal to set up a similarly accredited institute in Sri Lanka, which he described as an essential step to stabilize the national economy through value addition. By providing world-class certification at home, the government aims to position Sri Lanka as a primary global hub for precious stones, ensuring local gems command their true market value while encouraging technological exchange and enhancing the competitiveness of Sri Lankan exports. (NewsWire)