Identification of Barrier for Development of the Sri Lankan Small- and Medium-scale Gem Mining Enterprises: A Case Study Based on Ratnapura District

Abstract

Small- and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs) have been recognized as a critical segment and lifeline to push development and social improvement in Sri Lanka. Several studies have pointed out that people involved in some informal sector SME activities are opposing to develop that sector due to many reasons. Further, it will be same for the gem mining sector too. Along these lines, this examination may be directed towards recognizing those essential trademarks of gem mining SMEs. This study discusses the primary issues which thwart those improvements in this industry and will suggest necessary arrangements. Methodology should also overcome these imperatives. This study is composed of an investigation in Ratnapura locale with organized questionnaire surveys and meetings with magic stakeholders. Furthermore, this creates far-reaching expositive expression audit. The vicious cycle of the SME model may be utilized to study the prevailing barriers in this industry. Discoveries of the exploration demonstrate that this business is male-dominated. Different ages are also included. Marketing, technology, data and administration and administrative issues are identified as main barriers and basic problems in gem mining industry. Furthermore, gems prices are kept at falsely low level toward those purchasers who come for repeat buys. This is the major barrier in the development of lifestyle of the gem mining people who spend a miserable life, while cunning gem buyers are living a luxurious life on the shoulders of poor. This research endeavour will be directed towards a situational examination.