The Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) of the Cabinet has approved a new national gemstone development policy aimed at unlocking billions of dollars worth of untapped mineral resources across Pakistan.

The newly approved framework, titled the “National Policy to Realize Pakistan’s Gemstone Potential 2026–2030,” is designed to modernize the country’s gemstone sector, improve exports, and encourage sustainable mining practices.

Pakistan is home to a wide range of precious and semi-precious stones, including emeralds, rubies, sapphires, topaz, and aquamarine. Despite the country’s vast mineral reserves, the gemstone industry has remained largely underdeveloped due to informal mining operations, lack of technology, and limited international market access.

Under the new policy, the government plans to formalize the gemstone sector by introducing modern mining standards, better regulatory systems, and improved value addition processes. Officials believe the initiative could significantly increase Pakistan’s gemstone exports while creating employment opportunities in mineral-rich regions.

The policy places special focus on Gilgit-Baltistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Azad Jammu & Kashmir, areas known for their rich gemstone deposits. Authorities expect the initiative to support regional economic development by attracting investment and encouraging local participation in the mining industry.

Experts have long argued that Pakistan’s gemstone sector has the potential to become a major contributor to the national economy if managed efficiently. Many of the country’s gemstones are currently exported in raw form, limiting the overall economic value generated from the industry.

The new strategy aims to address this issue by promoting cutting, polishing, certification, and other value-added processes within Pakistan. This approach is expected to help local businesses compete more effectively in international markets and increase foreign exchange earnings.

Government officials also emphasized the importance of environmentally responsible mining practices under the policy. Modern extraction techniques and improved oversight are expected to reduce illegal mining activities and promote sustainable resource management.

Industry stakeholders have welcomed the ECC’s decision, viewing it as a major step toward transforming Pakistan into a recognized player in the global gemstone market. The policy is also expected to improve investor confidence by creating a clearer regulatory and operational framework for the sector.

The approval of the gemstone development policy reflects the government’s broader efforts to explore untapped economic sectors and diversify export opportunities in the coming years.