INSUBCONTINENT EXCLUSIVE:
President Ranil Wickremesinghe has unveiled plans to provide concessions to those who engaged in the gems and jewellery sector.This
initiative comes in response to the challenges faced by the industry, with the President emphasizing the importance of addressing these
industry, relief will be extended to its stakeholders, ensuring their continued growth and prosperity.The President, clarifying that
immediate changes to the tax policy are not feasible, noted that efforts, however, would be made to devise an effective system to enhance
the gem and jewellery industry.Wickremesinghe directed officials to develop a viable system aimed at bolstering the gem and jewellery
He instructed them to collaborate with both the public and private sectors to draft a proposal addressing these issues within two weeks.The
tax policies, which have had repercussions on the gem and jewellery industry, along with other pertinent issues concerning the
sector.Wickremesinghe further emphasized the need to focus on boosting exports within the gem industry in Sri Lanka, along with enhancing
value-added processes.Additionally, the President highlighted plans to initiate mining operations in the Sabaragamuwa province and
Nuwara-Eliya District in the future
Consequently, Sri Lankan gem businessmen will have ample opportunities to venture into mining activities in these regions.The President also
announced that a survey will be conducted to explore the feasibility of establishing gem and mining enterprises in other regions of Sri
Lanka.Minister of Wildlife and Forest Resources Conservation and Minister of Irrigation Pavithradevi Wanniarachchi, speaking at the event,
expressed gratitude towards President Ranil Wickremesinghe for his leadership during challenging times
The Minister also commended the transformative efforts made by the President, particularly for taking charge of the country during a period
of significant peril to the lives of its citizens.Present in the discussion were Secretary to the President Saman Ekanayake, Senior Adviser
to the President on Economic Affairs Dr
Samaratunga, along with heads of line agencies and other officials.--PMD
