Sri Lanka Gem and Jewellery Association holds Annual General Meeting

• Akram Cassim re-elected as President for 2025/2026

The Sri Lanka Gem and Jewellery Association (SLGJA) held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) recently at Amari Hotel Colombo, bringing together a full house of members representing every segment of the gem and jewellery industry. 
The association’s membership reflects the wide diversity of Sri Lanka’s gem and jewellery value chain — from miners and lapidarists to cutters, exporters, designers, retailers and global traders — united under one national platform.
Akram Cassim was unanimously re-elected as President of the association for the year 2025-2026. 
The AGM underscored the association’s commitment to strengthening the industry, promoting policy reform and preparing for the next phase of growth, both locally and internationally.
President’s address
In his address to the membership, Cassim reflected on the achievements and challenges of the past year and outlined his vision for the coming term.
“Over the past year, together with our board and membership, we have worked with focus and determination to strengthen the association, confront challenges and advance on issues vital to the future of our industry,” he said.
Key highlights included:

• Policy and taxation reform: Progress through the introduction of the VAT Refund Counter at the airport for tourists and Customs ‘Gem Bag’ system.
• Safeguarding reputation: The SLGJA’s swift and decisive response to the AGTA radiation issue, protecting the reputation of Sri Lankan sapphires internationally.
• Industry impact: Recognition that over 600,000 Sri Lankans depend on the gem and jewellery sector — from mine to market — highlighting the need for continued reforms.
• Unity and collaboration: Strengthened engagement with Ratnapura and Beruwela associations, working for a united approach on industry issues.
• Institutional development: Completion of a major upgrade to the SLGJA office, transforming it into a professional and efficient hub for members and stakeholders.

FACETS – Global showcase
Among the year’s highlights was the success of FACETS 2025, which once again showcased Sri Lanka’s gemstones and craftsmanship to the world, reinforcing the island’s 2,500-year-old heritage as the ‘Island of Gems’.
Looking ahead, Cassim announced that the 33rd edition of FACETS Sri Lanka would take place at Cinnamon Life – The City of Dreams – from January 3 to 5, 2026. This world-class venue will allow the SLGJA to deliver a bold new vision for the show, offering an elevated experience for exhibitors, buyers and visitors alike.
He also introduced the Sapphire Sponsorship Circle, which brings together leading exporters and jewellers to uplift and promote FACETS globally, while strengthening youth involvement to ensure the next generation continues to carry forward Sri Lanka’s gem legacy.
Gratitude and acknowledgements
Cassim expressed heartfelt gratitude to the SLGJA board, secretariat and members for their trust and dedication, acknowledging the collective effort that made the past year’s progress possible.
He also recognised the invaluable support of the Export Development Board, Industries Ministry and other government partners and paid tribute to the late Naveen Sooriarachchi, former Chairman of the National Gem and Jewellery Authority, whose support was instrumental in advancing several industry initiatives. “If the urgently needed reforms are delivered, we have the power not just to transform our trade but to transform the lives of over 600,000 Sri Lankans who depend on it,” he concluded. 
“Together, we can ensure that Sri Lanka’s gem and jewellery industry shines even brighter, carrying forward its timeless legacy and securing its rightful place on the global stage.”
Elected board for 2025-2026

• President – Akram Cassim
• COO and Secretary – Shezan Mansoor
• Assistant Secretary – Amanda Wijemanne
• Treasurer – Nawrooz Azmi
• Assistant Treasurer – Asfaq Deen
• Vice President (Gems) – Razni Haniffa
• Vice President (Jewellery) – Sellakumar Kandasamy
• Vice President (Lapidary) – Pinsiri Wijepala
• Vice President (Promotions) – Armil Samoon
• Immediate Past President – Ajward Deen

This dynamic and balanced team blends experience with youthful energy — united to lead the SLGJA into another transformative year for Sri Lanka’s gem and jewellery industry.