MAZAR-I-SHARIF (Pajhwok): The precious stones and gems market has been improved recently following an increase in the number of foreign tourists in the northern Balkh province.
Shopkeepers associated with the precious stones business said as a result of an increase in the number of foreign tourists to the province and the halt of precious stones smuggling the market condition of precious stones had improved in the province.
Mohammad Yousuf, one of the precious stones sellers, told Pajhwok Afghan News there is an improvement in the market condition of precious stones and other items made of precious stones this year compared to last year.
He linked the improvement with the increasing number of foreign tourists to Balkh province and the prevention of precious stones smuggling.
Sharifullah, another shopkeeper, said they made necklaces, bracelets, Teka and other items used by women for beatification from ruby, emerald, turquoise, coral and its market improved now compared to the past.
He said local people and some foreign tourists purchased from him items made of precious stones.
Meanwhile, residents in Mazar-i-Sharif, the capital of Balkh province, have asked authorities to prevent the smuggling of precious stones.
Mehrab said that people should use local products and the government should stop the smuggling of precious stones.
Sameer, another local resident, said that the government should encourage the professional excavation of precious stones and stop their smuggling.
He said this industry has no match and if the government supported industrialists these items could find a good market outside as well.
Amir Mohammad Muttaqi, head of the Balkh Commerce and Industry Department, said nobody will be allowed to smuggle precious stones.
He said the market of precious stones and related items improved now compared to the past and its production also improved.
He linked the development with improved security situation in the province which also encouraged foreigners to visit Balkh.
According to the provincial Information and Cultural Affairs Department this year 800 tourists from different countries visited Balkh province.
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