COLOMBO, Jan. 10 (Xinhua) -- Sri Lanka plans to establish an international gem and jewelry center to enhance the global recognition of the country's gem and jewelry industry, state media reported on Friday.
Naveen Sooriyarachchi, chairman of the National Gem and Jewelry Authority, was quoted as saying that the center will feature comprehensive facilities, including gem and jewelry showrooms, gem museums, laboratory services for quality testing, freight transport services, and a hub for export-related activities.
Official data shows that Sri Lanka's gem and jewelry sector currently generates approximately 400 million U.S. dollars annually.
Earlier this month, the President's Media Division (PMD) announced the government's goal to develop the sector further, aiming to exceed 1 billion dollars in gem and jewelry exports. ■
