Over 15,000 kg of imported rough gems remain unused

Minister of Industries and Enterprise Development – Sunil Handunnetti told Parliament yesterday (Oct. 24) that 15,652 kilograms of rough gemstones imported by the National Gem & Jewellery Authority (NGJA) have not been put to productive use.

Responding to a question raised by MP – Ravi Karunanayake, the Minister said a total of 46,816 kilograms of rough stones had been imported under the HS code 7103.10 between 2022 – 2024.

He noted that NGJA officials had inspected the imported stocks at traders’ premises and found that 29,500 kilograms consisted mainly of low-value rough stones. 

Minister Handunnetti further revealed that 1,664 kilograms of cut and polished gemstones from the imported stocks had been exported, while 8,260 kilograms were found to be unsuitable for cutting or polishing.

Another 7,392 kilograms remain unprocessed and unused.

Speaking, the Minister further stated that a proper system is needed to ensure that gems imported to Sri Lanka for the purpose of re-export are done so in a proper manner. 

He added that the NGJA and Sri Lanka Customs are now working to establish a joint monitoring mechanism for this purpose.