Minister Sunil Handunnetti joins Ceylon Gemlogue ’26 as Sri Lanka charts new direction for gem industry
COLOMBO, September 27, 2026 — Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development Sunil Handunnetti attended the inaugural session of Ceylon Gemlogue ’26 in Colombo today, as industry stakeholders and policymakers gathered to discuss the future of Sri Lanka’s internationally recognised gem and jewellery sector.
Organised by Ceylon Gem Chronicles, the conference brought together key figures from the public and private sectors, along with international experts, for discussions focused on scientific mining, sustainable development, modern technology and strengthening Sri Lanka’s position in the global gemstone market.
Minister Sunil Handunnetti participated in the inaugural session of the conference, highlighting the importance of the gem industry as Sri Lanka looks to develop greater value addition and modernise traditional sectors.
Deputy Minister Chathuranga Abeysinghe, Deputy Speaker Rizvi Salih and Member of Parliament Chandima Weerakkody also participated in the event, according to Minister Handunnetti.
The conference featured a series of special lectures and leadership panel discussions examining key challenges and opportunities facing the gemstone industry. Particular attention was given to the adoption of scientific approaches to mining, sustainable practices and the use of modern technology across the industry.
The discussions also placed emphasis on global branding, an increasingly important area for Sri Lanka as the country seeks to strengthen the international identity and commercial value of its gemstones.
Sri Lanka has a long-established reputation in the global gemstone trade, particularly for its sapphires. Industry discussions around value addition, advanced cutting, design and branding have increasingly focused on how the country can capture a greater share of the value generated beyond the extraction and export of rough stones.
Ceylon Gemlogue ’26 has brought together international specialists from the gemstone, jewellery, geological and cutting sectors, creating a platform for knowledge-sharing between Sri Lankan stakeholders and global industry professionals.
The programme includes discussions on gemstone science, mining, craftsmanship and international markets, while also highlighting the connection between Sri Lanka’s traditional gem heritage and modern industry practices.
For Sri Lanka’s gem sector, the focus on sustainable mining and technology comes at a time when global consumers and luxury markets are placing greater emphasis on responsible sourcing, traceability and quality.
The event therefore provides an opportunity for policymakers and industry representatives to examine how Sri Lanka can preserve its traditional strengths while adopting modern techniques and expanding its presence in high-value international markets.
Ceylon Gemlogue ’26 is being held under the theme “Crafted by Hand, Inspired by Heritage,” reflecting the conference’s focus on connecting Sri Lanka’s historic gem craftsmanship with contemporary technology, expertise and global opportunities.
The programme continues with specialised sessions and a hands-on gemstone-cutting workshop designed to provide participants with exposure to advanced cutting techniques and craftsmanship.
Minister Handunnetti’s participation places the government’s industry-development agenda alongside the discussions taking place within the gem sector, particularly as Sri Lanka explores ways to strengthen traditional industries through technology, sustainability and greater value addition.
