The Export Development Board (EDB) reaffirmed its commitment to expanding Sri Lanka’s gem and jewellery exports, with Chairman Mangala Wijesinghe expressing confidence that FACETS Sri Lanka 2027 will help the industry achieve its target of US$1 billion in export earnings by 2030.
Addressing the launch of the 34th edition of FACETS Sri Lanka, Wijesinghe described the exhibition as Asia’s most prestigious international gem and jewellery exhibition and the flagship event of Sri Lanka’s gem and jewellery industry.
“For over three decades, FACETS has served as far more than an exhibition. It has become a globally recognised platform that showcases Sri Lanka’s finest gemstones, exquisite jewellery, skilled craftsmanship and rich heritage while creating valuable business opportunities for exporters, international buyers, investors, designers and industry stakeholders from around the world,” he said. He noted that Sri Lanka, known as the “Island of Gems,” has earned a global reputation over more than 2,000 years for producing some of the world’s finest sapphires, rubies, cat’s eyes and other precious gemstones.
“The natural treasures, combined with generations of craftsmanship, ethical mining practices and internationally recognised expertise in gem cutting and jewellery manufacturing, continue to distinguish Sri Lanka in the global marketplace,” he said.
Wijesinghe said the gem and jewellery sector remained one of the country’s key export industries, generating over US$300 million in export earnings in 2025. During the first five months of 2026, exports from the sector reached nearly US$170 million, recording around 8% growth over the corresponding period last year.
“The industry represents authenticity, trust, sustainability and exceptional quality. These qualities continue to strengthen the global reputation of Ceylon gems,” he added.
The EDB Chairman said the Board would continue supporting exporters through market diversification initiatives, participation in international trade fairs, business matchmaking programmes, branding, export capacity building and strategic marketing. Highlighting the long-standing partnership between the EDB and the Sri Lanka Gem and Jewellery Association (SLGJA), he said the EDB has co-organised FACETS since its inception in 1991 and has operated the dedicated SME Jewellery Pavilion since 1996, helping hundreds of small and medium-sized jewellery manufacturers enter export markets and expand their international presence.
Wijesinghe said FACETS 2027 would once again bring together leading gem dealers, jewellery manufacturers, exporters, designers, collectors and international buyers, creating opportunities to forge new partnerships, strengthen existing business relationships and attract investment into Sri Lanka’s gem and jewellery industry. Referring to the recently launched National Export Development Plan (NEDP) 2026-2030, he said the strategy provides a clear roadmap to enhance export competitiveness, diversify products and markets and increase value addition in line with the Government’s export-led growth agenda.
“We are targeting 8-10% export growth this year. Despite global challenges, exports during the first five months have already recorded around 7% growth, reflecting the resilience of Sri Lanka’s export sector,” he said.
Inviting international buyers, investors and jewellery brands to attend FACETS Sri Lanka 2027, Wijesinghe also urged them to participate in Sri Lanka Expo 2027, scheduled to be held from January 14 to 17, 2027, at the BMICH in Colombo.
“As we target US$1 billion in gem and jewellery exports by 2030, I am confident that FACETS will play a significant role in helping the industry achieve that milestone,” he said.
Source: Daily News
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