Export, import of gems and jewellery delayed as SRO approval stuck at PMO: report

The resumption of export and import of gems and jewellery remains pending as the approval of SRO 760 is reportedly held up at the Prime Minister’s Office, Business Recorder reported, citing sources. 

On August 8, Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan assured the All Pakistan Small Gems Jewellers & Tools Association (APSGJTA) that the SRO would be reinstated soon, following discussions with industry representatives and exporters. 

The Ministry also held a Zoom meeting with gold exporters, who highlighted delays in import and re-export consignments, including a 50-kg gold shipment currently stuck at the port.

SRO 760(1) 2023 expired on July 8. It had been suspended earlier on May 2, 2025, when the Federal Cabinet formed a committee to review the rules and suggest improvements within 60 days. 

The committee held five meetings, finalised a report with recommendations, and submitted it to the Prime Minister’s Office on July 4. On July 28, the PMO directed the Ministry of Commerce to consult private sector stakeholders.

The committee shared its recommendations with jewellery exporters on August 8, and all participants endorsed the report. Following this, the Commerce Ministry submitted a note to the Prime Minister recommending the continuation of SRO 760, noting no discrepancies in the data.

Industry representatives warned that some international buyers of Pakistani jewellery exporters are considering legal action against their local partners for failing to meet contractual obligations due to the delay.