“Gem Sri Lanka 2027” Launch Strengthens Sri Lanka–Thailand Gem and Jewellery Cooperation

The “Gem Sri Lanka 2027” was unveiled in Bangkok on 06 September 2026, 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 & Jewellery  Traders Association (CGJTA). 

The event was graced by the Chief Guest, Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship  Development of Sri Lanka, Sunil Handunnethi, who delivered the keynote address. The  Minister 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 & Jewellery Industry and Expanding Its  Global Presence”, alongside Chairman of the National Gem and Jewellery Authority  (NGJA) of Sri Lanka, 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 US$ 90 million  from approximately US$ 41.6 million in 2024, with precious and semi-precious stones  accounting for almost 70 per cent 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.