The Bahrain Ministry of Industry and Commerce (MOIC), the Bahrain Economic Development Board (EDB) and the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to help develop the kingdom’s Gemstone and Pearl Testing Laboratory (GPTLB) into a world-class research centre of natural pearls.
GIA’s executive vice president and chief laboratory and research officer Tom Moses said: “We are honored to contribute GIA’s expertise and research, and to work alongside the EDB and the MOIC to build on Bahrain’s history and reputation as a leading center for natural pearl research and production.” Under the MoU signatories agree to work together to protect and enhance Bahrain’s natural pearling industry, aimed at developing capacity, research, expertise and technological know-how at the GPTLB, and identifying further opportunities for the growth.
“This is an exciting development for Bahrain’s pearling industry. By working in partnership with GIA, GPTLB will be provided with the facilities and expertise required to capitalize on regional and international trade and investment opportunities in this fast growing sector,” said Hassan Abdullah Fakhro, minister of Industry and Commerce.”
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