The National Gem and Jewellery Authority maintains a strict ban on issuing gem mining licences to foreign nationals, foreign companies, and local companies with foreign investment or foreign partnerships. The policy is published in the authority's knowledge base and enforced as a criminal offence when violated.
Exploration licences from the Geological Survey and Mines Bureau do not authorize gem mining. NGJA may confiscate equipment and prosecute illegal operations, including cases where foreign firms attempt to mine under exploration permits.
The government has repeatedly stated it will not allow the gem industry to fall into foreign corporate hands. For international investors, the path remains buying cut stones, partnering with licensed local miners, or importing rough for re-export processing rather than owning pits.
Domestic politics treat gem mining as sovereign resource policy. Expect the ban to survive the NGJA Act amendment process unless parliament explicitly reverses it.
