The gemstone sector is looking for added value
LAHORE: Calls are growing for the government to create special value-added zones and marble parks to transform Pakistan’s gem and marble industry, which remains largely informal despite its significant natural wealth. Industry representatives warn that without modern processing facilities, load shedding and long-term export-focused reforms, Pakistan will continue to lose billions in potential revenue to regional competitors. The appeal comes at a time when the global market for gemstones and related products is expanding rapidly. According to local industry estimates, the global market for precious and semi-precious stones was valued at around $1,040 billion last year, and the broader gemstone
