On April 15, 2004, in Siberian Federal District there was a meeting held devoted to the problems of jewellery sector in the region. Its participants were the representatives of the federal ministries and departments, the heads of gold mining and refining companies and the representatives of executive power in the district.

Independent Information Agency reports that the event had been initiated by jewellery producers and traders. At the meeting there was the following information given: during the recent ten years ? since 1994 ? jewellery production volume has been multiplied, its growth amounts to about 30% a year.

However, precious metals and gemstones mining and processing enterprises are separated by technologically and economically. Thus the potential of jewellery industry is used insufficiently. Precious metals and gemstones illegal turnover is a serious problem as well.

The representatives of Siberian jewellery sector discussed the questions of licensing, quality control, jewellers training. It was decided as well to form an organisation in the district and to work out the programme of jewellery sector development in Siberia.