The Thai Gem & Jewelry Traders Association (TGJTA) announced that it is considering a visit to Namibia, to establish bilateral trade. TGJTA is looking at establishing a long-term trade, to facilitate direct import of roughs, and investment in diamond and jewellery cutting, mining and material supply. %% TGJTA has been urged by the Namibian government to set up gems and diamond cutting facilities in Namibia. During his visit to Thailand, Mr. Neville Melvin Gertze, Ambassador of Namibia stated that, Namibia is keen on welcoming foreign investment especially in its jewellery business. TGJTA is likely to make its visit in June 2008. %% H.E. Mingkwan Sangsuwan Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister, accompanied by Mr. Rachane Potjanasuntorn Director-General Department of Export Promotion and senior representative of Thai Gem and Jewelry Traders Association, announced that Thailand is interested in signing deals with Namibia, particularly in direct raw material import. Currently, the Thai jewellery industry imports raw materials from Namibia, mainly through middlemen. %% The visiting group to Namibia will consist of government and private sector individuals, who will scout for raw material resources for the Thai jewellery industry and persuade the Thai government to promote Thailand as a free-port for Gems & Jewellery Industry. The waiver will allow a free flow of needed raw materials. TGJTA is also thinking of inviting Namibia’s top diamond mining companies to participate at the forthcoming Bangkok Gems & Jewelry Fairs. Namibia is Africa’s fifth largest mining industry, with rich sources also in tourmaline, amethyst, topaz and such gems and precious stones. Its diamond mining industry contributed to 74 percent of the country’s gross domestic product, with its diamond manufacturing industry contributing 11 percent.