The Thai Ministry of Commerce said it has joined forces with state agencies and industry bodies to encourage rough gems traders to abide to official regulations in their conduct of businesses.

The campaign encourages traders, especially those on small and medium enterprises level, to comply with customs procedures in declaring their imports from the outset.

The drive is part of a bid by the Ministry, along with parties concerned like Ministry of Finance and Thai Gem and Jewelry Traders Association, to remove impediments and add glitter to Thailand’s gems and jewelry industry.

The efforts help industry players to conduct their businesses in a seamless manner.

The gems and jewelry industry plays an important role in the Thai economy, being the country’s fourth largest exporter in terms of value with $8.27 billion in sales last year and providing more than one million jobs.

Cooperation from the public and private sectors will help the jewel sector to weather any uncertainties in the world economy while keeping Thailand on the forefront in the global marketplace, the Commerce Ministry said.

JCK