PM pushes gemstone export drive, orders probe into SNGPL 'tender irregularities'

-- PM pushes Centres of Excellence to modernise gemstone sector
-- Govt tasks planning ministry with export growth strategy
-- Pakistan to host first International Gemstone Expo in July 2026
-- PM orders transparent probe into SNGPL procurement irregularities

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday underscored Pakistan’s vast potential in the gemstone sector, directing authorities to accelerate efforts to align mining and processing with international standards and boost exports.

Chairing a high-level review meeting, the premier said Pakistan was richly endowed with natural resources, including precious stones, and emphasised that the sector could significantly contribute to export growth if properly developed.

The meeting focused on plans to establish three Centres of Excellence across the country to provide world-class training in gemstone cutting, polishing and jewellery preparation. The prime minister stressed that transparency must remain central to the establishment and operation of these centres.

He tasked the Ministry of Planning Development and Special Initiatives with preparing a comprehensive strategy to enhance exports of processed gemstones, directing that a detailed roadmap be presented at the earliest.

The session was attended by key cabinet members, including Ahsan Iqbal, Musadik Malik, Jam Kamal Khan, Ali Pervaiz Malik, Minister of State Bilal Azhar Kayani, Special Assistant Haroon Akhtar, and State Bank Governor Jameel Ahmad, along with senior officials from Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir.

Officials briefed the meeting on ongoing efforts to introduce modern mining techniques and reduce wastage. Land has already been identified for Centres of Excellence in Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir, while a site in Islamabad is under consideration.

The meeting was also informed that Pakistan will host its first international gemstone exhibition in July 2026, and is collaborating with Sri Lanka and China to train skilled manpower in advanced gemstone processing. Around 1,000 individuals are currently being trained in internationally compliant mining practices, with a focus on community-inclusive projects.

The prime minister directed authorities to expedite progress and finalise a comprehensive roadmap to fully tap the sector’s export potential.

PM orders probe into TIP's allegations:
In a related development, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also ordered a transparent inquiry into allegations raised by Transparency International Pakistan against Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited (SNGPL) over violations of Public Procurement Regulatory Authority (PPRA) rules.

Taking notice of the complaint, the prime minister directed relevant authorities to investigate alleged irregularities in SNGPL’s tendering process. He instructed that strict action be taken if the allegations are proven, reaffirming the government’s commitment to transparency and accountability in public sector operations.