sporting ambition into a partnership with one of Asia’s football power houses.

LUSAKA – India’s Gem and Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) has significantly intensified its efforts to forge robust trade ties with Zambia, specifically targeting the rich potential of the nation's gemstone and jewellery sector. This strategic move, spearheaded by the GJEPC, underscores a concerted push to unlock greater value and market access for Zambian precious stones within the vast and sophisticated Indian jewellery industry. The initiative comes at a crucial time for Zambia, as the country seeks to diversify its economy and maximize returns from its abundant natural resources. While Zambia is renowned for its high-quality emeralds, amethysts, and other semi-precious stones, much of this wealth has historically been exported in raw or minimally processed forms, limiting the economic benefits accrued domestically. The GJEPC's engagement signals a shift towards a more integrated value chain, where Zambian gems could be processed, cut, and polished to meet international standards, thereby fetching higher prices and creating more local employment opportunities. Discussions between the GJEPC and Zambian stakeholders are expected to cover a wide array of areas, including technology transfer in cutting and polishing, skill development for local artisans, and direct market linkages to India's extensive network of manufacturers and retailers. Such a partnership could significantly elevate Zambia's standing in the global gem market, moving it from a raw material supplier to a key player in the value-added segment. Furthermore, it aligns with Zambia's broader industrialization agenda, which prioritizes local beneficiation of natural resources. For India, a global leader in gem cutting, polishing, and jewellery manufacturing, strengthening ties with Zambia ensures a consistent supply of high-quality raw materials, crucial for maintaining its competitive edge. The GJEPC's proactive approach reflects a mutual recognition of the untapped potential that exists wh