The ‘Gem Sri Lanka 2027’ was unveiled in Bangkok on 6 September, bringing together key stakeholders to promote Sri Lanka’s gem and jewellery industry ahead of its fourth edition in January 2027.
The launch was organised by the Ceylon Gem and Jewellery Traders Association (CGJTA).
The event was attended by the Chief Guest, Industry and Entrepreneurship Development Minister Sunil Handunnetti, who delivered the keynote address.
He highlighted the importance of value addition, innovation and international collaboration in strengthening Sri Lanka’s gem and jewellery industry, as well as the significant opportunities for Sri Lanka-Thailand cooperation in gem cutting, processing, jewellery manufacturing, design, technology and international marketing.
The Minister further noted that Sri Lanka’s precious stones and centuries-old craftsmanship, together with Thailand’s globally recognised expertise in gemstone processing, jewellery manufacturing, design and international marketing, provided a strong foundation for deeper industry partnerships. He emphasised the potential to move beyond traditional trading relationships and strengthen cooperation through skills development, technology transfer, research and innovation.
Ambassador of Sri Lanka to Thailand, Wijayanthi Edirisinghe, participated in a panel discussion on ‘Strengthening Sri Lanka’s Gem and Jewellery Industry and Expanding Its Global Presence’, alongside National Gem and Jewellery Authority (NGJA) Chairman Dr. S. P. Chaminda, and other industry leaders.
The Ambassador highlighted Bangkok’s importance as a major international marketplace for gems and jewellery and the opportunities it offered Sri Lankan businesses to access international buyers, explore new markets and establish commercial partnerships. She also emphasised the importance of strengthening links among industry associations, entrepreneurs and businesses in Sri Lanka and Thailand to support the continued growth of the sector.
Sri Lankan exports to Thailand more than doubled in 2025, reaching over $ 90 million from approximately $ 41.6 million in 2024, with precious and semi-precious stones accounting for almost 70% of Sri Lanka’s exports to Thailand.
‘Gem Sri Lanka 2027’, scheduled to be held in Sri Lanka in January 2027, is expected to provide an important platform for international buyers, investors and industry stakeholders to explore Sri Lanka’s gem and jewellery sector and establish new business partnerships.