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RAPAPORT... The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) signed an agreement with the Bahrain Ministry of Industry and Commerce and the Bahrain Economic Development Board (EDB) to develop the country's Gemstone and Pearl Testing Laboratory (GPTLB) into a world-class research center for natural pearls. “We’re pleased to contribute GIA’s expertise and research to build on Bahrain’s history and reputation as a leading center for natural pearl research and production,” said Tom Moses, GIA’s executive vice president and chief laboratory and research officer. The initiative was agreed to in November and is intended to protect and enrich Bahrain’s thriving pearling industry by increasing production capacity, research, expertise and technology at the GPTLB, and by identifying further opportunities for growth. Hassan Abdullah Fakhro, the Minister of Industry and Commerce, said, “This is an exciting development for Bahrain’s pearling industry. By working in partnership with GIA, the GPTLB will be provided with the facilities and expertise required to capitalize on regional and international trade and investment opportunities in this fast-growing sector.”
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