With the objective of developing the Kingdom of Bahrain’s Gemstone and Pearl Testing Laboratory (GPTLB) into a world-class research centre for natural pearls, the Bahrain Ministry of Industry and Commerce, the Bahrain Economic Development Board (EDB) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with GIA (Gemological Institute of America).

The initiative was agreed on in November 2013, and was seen as a path to protect and enrich Bahrain’s pearling industry by increasing capacity, research, expertise and technology at the GPTLB, and by identifying further growth opportunities. Bahrain has been a leading pearling centre in the world, and the industry was once the backbone of its economy.

“We’re pleased to contribute GIA’s expertise and research to build on Bahrain’s history and reputation as a leading centre for natural pearl research and production,” said Tom Moses, GIA’s executive vice president and chief laboratory and research officer.

“By working in partnership with GIA, the GPTLB will be provided with the facilities and expertise required to capitalise on regional and international trade and investment opportunities in this fast growing sector,” said Dr. Hassan Abdullah Fakhro, the minister of Industry and Commerce. H.E. Kamal bin Ahmed, Minister of Transportation and Acting Chief Executive of the Bahrain EDB added that“Historically, pearling was the backbone of our economy, and we want to capitalise on our heritage, combined with world-class techniques and processes, to create a centre of excellence for the industry here in Bahrain.”

GIA already has a presence in the Middle East taking forward its education programs and courses in major trade centres including Bahrain and others.