Due to lack of proper training mechanism for Pakistan's gems and jewellery manufacturers and artisans, outdated equipments, designs and techniques have continued since independence.
This was stated by Sylvo Schroeder and Ms Bhavana, gems and jewellery consultants, while addressing a seminar on 'Latest Jewellery Designing and Gemology', organised by Pakistan Gems and Jewellery Development Company (PGJDC) at a local hotel on Saturday.
"Gems and jewellery manufacturing sector can not provide fruitful results unless proper training mechanism for Pakistani artisans and manufacturers is initiated with the aim to compete in international markets where latest fashion jewellery designs are in demand", they said.
They said that this sector could earn more than the set target of $1.5 billion by 2017 if the government provided supportive infrastructure to the manufacturers and facilitates them to adopt latest gems cutting and jewellery manufacturing techniques.
They said that lack of awareness for making attractive jewellery and absence of modern technical expertise for gems cutting were real impediments in the growth of this sector in Pakistan. Gems and jewellery sector has been avoiding advancement since independence but now it is the need of the hour to utilise natural resources which would be helpful in creating better livelihood opportunities and play a vital role in the growth of Pakistan's economy.
Therefore, they said, the government should formulate a strategy to facilitate the manufacturers for adopting latest trends and manufacturing techniques to enhance exports.
They said that India has captured a sizeable international market of gems and diamonds and is identified as the largest jewellery exporting country across the globe by its long-term strategy which should be a model for Pakistan's gems and jewellery sector.
Pakistan is the seven largest jewellery exporting country. But unluckily its annual exports amount to only $35 million against India's $17 billion per annum, they added. They appreciated PGJDC for developing the gems and jewellery sector aiming to enhance workers' skills and income, which would broaden employment and help in alleviating poverty.
They said that due to lack of information sharing between manufacturers, this sector was defocused and unorganised. They expressed hope that if information would be shared it would generate new ideas, besides helping in adoption of latest technology, which might make Pakistan a hub of gems and jewellery trading.
PGJDC Chairman Mateeullah said: "Pakistan has world's best and most precious gemstones but we are lacking in training. If we provide mines-to-market infrastructure to this sector Pakistan can also enhance its jewellery exports to new levels." A large number of people from jewellery sector were present on the occasion.
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