Sri Lanka, Dec. 18 -- Amidst the complex challenges of economic stabilisation, a bold and transformative policy proposition is gaining traction among industry leaders and economists: the establishment of a dedicated Gold Regulatory Authority (GRA) coupled with strategic support for the gem and jewellery sector. Proponents argue this is not merely a sectoral tweak, but a visionary strategy to position Sri Lanka as a structured, productive, and transparent hub for precious metals and stones a potential "duty-free speculative market" for South Asia.

The core argument is one of capturing value. Sri Lanka, blessed with world-renowned gemstones and a historically sophisticated jewellery craftsmanship, nonetheless sees a significant portion of ...