SAGAING REGION will hold its first-ever gem expo from 28 August to 1 September at the Htet Kyaw private high school in the region, according to the Sagaing Gem and Jewellery Association. 

The five-day expo is aimed at making jade raw materials available in the region, generating employment for local residents, and creating revenue for the regional government, according to the association. 

“Payments will be made in the local currency, Kyat. Normally, Sagaing jade traders go to Mandalay and Nay Pyi Taw to buy gems, adding to costs. Now, they can buy around 1,000 jade lots in the region,” said U Aung Gyi, the chair of the association. 

“Visitors will be able to observe and evaluate jade on 28 and 29 August, and on the remaining three days, tenders will be invited for the gems. Enthusiasts can also visit the expo. As it will be the first-ever expo, there will be no entrance fee. There will be a lucky draw for bidders,” said U Aung Gyi. 

Moreover, the Sagaing Region will hold its second gem expo in December. The expo will be held biannually, according to the Sagaing Gem and Jewellery Association.

Khine Zeya (Translated by Ei Myat Mon)