Sri Lanka, Dec. 30 -- Minister of Industry, Sunil Handunnetti, stated that there has been a noticeable increase in the illegal export of gemstones from Sri Lanka.

The Minister made these remarks while participating in a gem and jewellery trade exhibition held in the Hikkaduwa area.

He noted that the lack of adequate facilities and an inefficient regulatory framework for gem traders have significantly contributed to this trend.

Addressing the issue further, Minister Handunnetti explained that the legal process for exporting gemstones is time-consuming, subject to delays, and often involves repeated fees for the same consignment. He observed that such inefficiencies discourage compliance and have led many traders to resort to illegal met...