Former UNP Deputy Leader, MP Ravi Karunanayake, submitted a series of questions under Standing Order 27(2) to Parliament regarding the state of Sri Lanka’s gem industry, seeking detailed responses from the Minister of Industries.
The questions raised by MP Karunanayake include:
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The Minister stated that around 45,000 kilograms of imported gems during 2020–2025 were unaccounted for by the National Gem and Jewellery Authority. What steps have been taken to locate these missing items, and will a full report be submitted to Parliament?
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What immediate measures will the government take to expand gem mining in areas without regulated sites? Reports suggest that costly licensing processes are discouraging interested miners.
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Is the government prepared to modernize gem auctions on an international business platform, similar to the tea industry, potentially in hard currency to generate foreign exchange?
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What steps are being taken to prevent Sri Lankan gems from being exported in raw form, ensuring cutting, cleaning, and value addition occur domestically?
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How is the Ministry promoting Sri Lanka as an international hub for genuine gems, including certification, hallmarking, and trade promotion? What strategies are being considered to restore global respect for Sri Lankan gems?
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Does the government have a target to generate $1–2 billion annually from gem and jewellery exports by 2030? Is there a roadmap to achieve this goal?
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Will small and medium-scale gem miners and jewellery manufacturers receive financial incentives such as tax breaks, reductions, or favorable financing to support industry expansion?
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In light of concerns about underpricing, illegal trade, and regulatory challenges, what measures are being taken to strengthen border control, inspections, and law enforcement? Can regulations be made more industry-friendly?
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Will the Minister provide a complete table of all taxes, fees, and duties associated with the gem industry—from mining to domestic sales and exports—so Parliament can assess whether the current tax structure supports growth and competitiveness?
MP Karunanayake’s questions highlight the urgent need for reforms and comprehensive policy measures to unlock the full potential of Sri Lanka’s gem sector.
