Gem and Jewellery Association’s new Chief calls for urgent policy reforms, promotion of “a Sapphire Experience”

Sri Lanka Gem and Jewellery Association newly elected President Akram Cassim

Sri Lanka Gem and Jewellery Association’s (SLGJA) newly appointed President Akram Cassim last week called for urgent policy reforms and promotion of what he described as “a Sapphire Experience.” Cassim outlined his vision at the SLGJA’s Annual General Meeting to drive the industry forward, tackle challenges collectively, and capitalise on the unique legacy of the Ceylon Sapphire.

Acknowledging that the challenges ahead are many, he called for unity across all facets of the gem and jewellery trade to address shared issues and improve the industry’s outlook. He emphasised that all segments of the trade—from Ratnapura, the heart of gem mining, to the gem trading hubs of Beruwela and the gold and jewellery craftsmanship found in Kandy and Sea Street—need to collaborate to strengthen the sector’s overall growth.

He drew attention to urgent policy reforms required to reverse the changes that have hindered growth, weakened global competitiveness, and led businesses to consider moving operations abroad. “If we can have urgent reforms and reverse policies that have impacted our industry negatively, we can create a business-friendly environment that will allow our trade to flourish,” he noted. Cassim expressed a firm commitment to work closely with the new government and other authorities to foster a business climate conducive to the growth of this vital sector.

A pivotal aspect of Cassim’s speech was the integration of the gem and jewellery industry with the booming tourism sector. He proposed strategic partnerships with Sri Lanka Tourism and Sri Lankan Airlines to enhance the experience of every tourist visiting the island, presenting a unique opportunity to position the country as a premier destination for gemstone shopping and cultural experiences. “Let’s create an amazing Sapphire Experience for tourists visiting this Island,” Cassim proposed, stressing the unparalleled opportunity to capitalise on the country’s rich heritage as a source of the world’s finest blue sapphires.

Akram Cassim takes helm as President of Sri Lanka Gem and Jewellery Association