Sri Lanka and Israel have taken significant steps to deepen bilateral cooperation in the gem and jewellery industry through a new international trade initiative jointly organized by the Sri Lankan Embassy, the Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB), the Israel-Asia Chamber of Commerce, and the Israel Diamond Center.
The initiative aims to build stronger commercial links between Sri Lankan gem and jewellery entrepreneurs and Israel’s globally renowned diamond industry. The collaboration seeks to enhance trade, innovation, and investment opportunities in both nations.
Following the successful international meeting, a delegation of Israeli diamond traders is set to visit Sri Lanka to explore potential partnerships and sourcing opportunities. In return, a group of Sri Lankan gem and jewellery designers and entrepreneurs will undertake a trade mission to Israel to experience firsthand the workings of the world’s largest diamond trading hub.
The Israeli diamond industry, headquartered in Tel Aviv, records annual exports exceeding USD 6 billion and total revenues surpassing USD 10 billion. Its key export markets include the United States (50%), Hong Kong (25%), Europe (15%), and Dubai (10%).
Currently, several diamond factories jointly operated by Israeli and Indian investors are already in operation in Sri Lanka, producing goods exclusively for export markets. The latest initiative aims to expand this collaboration by fostering direct engagement between Sri Lankan jewellers and Israeli diamond firms.
Discussions have also included the proposal to establish a branch of the Israeli Diamond Institute within the Colombo Port City Project — a move expected to further strengthen the partnership and position Sri Lanka as a regional hub for high-quality jewellery production and trade.
Sri Lankan gem and jewellery businesspersons interested in participating in upcoming trade visits and collaborations are encouraged to contact:
Ms. Dilsha De Alwis
Assistant Director – Industrial Products Division, EDB
Email: dilsha@edb.gov.lk
Mobile: (+94) 78 838 3458
Telephone: (+94) 11 2300705–711 (Ext: 360)
This growing partnership reflects Sri Lanka’s ongoing commitment to expanding its global presence in the gem and jewellery industry, leveraging both nations’ strengths to bring greater value to international markets.
