Mozambique govt plans to end export of rough gems
[ 2009-11-04
]
Maputo, Mozambique, 4 Nov - Mozambique is to create a training center in Nampula to evaluate, classify and certify precious stones to prevent continued exports of rough gems from the country, an official said.
Government spokesman Luis Covane said Tuesday that Mozambique is one of the world’s biggest suppliers of rough precious stones - particularly emeralds, rubies, sapphires and topaz. But lack of a polishing industry, specialized labor and a price regulating body have resulted in financial losses to the state, he added.
Some 98 percent of exported rough gems have been sold at significantly below world market prices, the government official said, putting Mozambique in “extremely unfavorable conditions” in relation to marketing of precious stones particularly from central and northern regions of the country. (macauhub)
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