A business delegation led by the Export Development Board is in India from August 8 to 13, seeking buyer links, sourcing partnerships and investment as Sri Lanka targets a larger share of one of the world’s biggest jewellery manufacturing and trading markets.
The mission was organised with the Sri Lanka High Commission in New Delhi and the Consulate General in Mumbai. It brings together the EDB, the National Gem and Jewellery Authority, three industry associations and nine Sri Lankan companies — Gem Paradise, Punsiri Gems, Mansoor Gems, Beauty Gems, Gemluxe Ceylon, Ashadi Jewellers, GemTrad, Ceylon Gemora and Cey Gems.
The associations represented are the Sri Lanka Gem and Jewellery Association, the Sri Lanka Gem and Jewellery Merchants and Miners Association, and the Ceylon Gem and Jewellery Traders Association.
Mumbai show and chamber meetings
During the first leg, the delegation attended the India International Jewellery Show in Mumbai on August 8 and 9, meeting buyers, exhibitors and industry representatives. Discussions covered expanding bilateral trade, identifying new areas of cooperation and building direct links between Sri Lankan and Indian companies.
On August 10 the delegation met the Bombay Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture. The EDB Chairman set out trade and investment opportunities, including sourcing, partnerships and commercial collaboration between companies in the two countries.
The National Gem and Jewellery Authority Chairman promoted Sri Lanka’s natural gemstones, craftsmanship and industry expertise, and encouraged partnerships with local firms.
Events promoted
The EDB used the meetings to promote Sri Lanka Expo 2027, scheduled for January 14 to 17 at the BMICH in Colombo, inviting international buyers and exhibitors — particularly companies working in advanced technologies and machinery relevant to Sri Lankan export industries.
Industry associations promoted upcoming local trade events including Gem City Ratnapura, FACETS and Gem Sri Lanka.
Participating companies presented their products and capabilities to Indian businesses as part of an effort to position Sri Lanka as a source of ethically sourced gemstones and value-added jewellery.
Sources: Sri Lanka eyes bigger share of India’s gem and jewellery market — Daily Mirror, August 12; Business delegation to India to promote Sri Lanka’s gem and jewellery sector — Hiru News, August 11.