Despite a sharp contraction in shipments to the United States, India’s gems and jewellery exports show resilience, supported by strong growth in the UAE, Hong Kong and emerging global markets.

Following the India–US Interim Agreement framework announcement, GJEPC confirms duty reduction on jewellery to 18% and anticipates zero-duty access for diamonds and coloured gemstones in the US market.

The GJEPC has welcomed the India-U.S, trade agreement announcement, saying the move could ease tariff pressures and provide much-needed relief to India's gem and jewellery exporters/

The EU-India FTA offers a significant boost to India’s gems and jewellery industry through reduced tariffs, easier market access, and improved competitiveness in Europe. The pact is expected to accelerate exports, attract investment, strengthen manufacturing, and reinforce India’s position as a trusted global sourcing hub for premium jewellery, says Suneeta Kaul.

Union Budget 2026-27 makes a strong push for MSMEs, with a Rs 10,000-crore SME Growth Fund; besides, it enables faster payments via mandatory TReDS for CPSE purchases. Overall, the Budget emphasizes fiscal prudence, infrastructure creation, and ease of doing business. For a sector navigating global uncertainty, shifting consumer preferences, and rising compliance standards, it is stability that the enabler.

IGI inaugurated its second Jaipur laboratory on January 29, 2026 in Sitapura to expand coloured gemstone testing, improve turnaround times and support manufacturers and exporters across North India.

GJEPC has responded to the India–EU Free Trade Agreement, stating that zero-duty access for jewellery will support exports, improve competitiveness and help double bilateral gem and jewellery trade within three years.

Following the announcement of the India-EU Free Trade Agreement, GJEPC Chairman Kirit Bhansali outlined its expected impact on exports, employment and market diversification for India’s gem and jewellery sector.

Ahead of the 27 January 2026 India-EU Summit in New Delhi, GJEPC has urged the Government of India to secure duty-free EU access for jewellery to expand exports and double bilateral trade.

In spite of an 8.76% dip in cut and polished diamond exports during April-November 2025, GJEPC remains optimistic about India’s export performance in 2026. The Council is looking forward to the BTA with the US, and should that take longer than expected, it will take all necessary measures in coordination with the government and stakeholders to support exports, and ensure continued growth, says Sabyasachi Ray, Executive Director, GJEPC, in a conversation with Suneeta Kaul.

India’s gem and jewellery exports to the US declined sharply in April–December 2025 amid tariff pressures, while growth in UAE, Hong Kong and FTA markets kept overall exports largely stable.

Buying activity softened as laboratory-grown diamonds and gold prices reshaped loose diamond trade dynamics at IIJS Bharat Signature 2026. Exhibitors observed slower conversions, but continued relevance, for natural diamonds, reports Khursheed Mistry.

The 18th edition of IIJS Bharat-Signature is scheduled from January 8 2026 to January 12 2026 at the JIO World Convention Centre Bombay Exhibition Centre. The event is expected to unite the entire global gem and jewellery community under one roof. With a diverse array of exhibitors and industry leaders, the 18th edition promises to be a convergence of innovation, networking, and business opportunities.

The India–New Zealand Free Trade Agreement is expected to improve price competitiveness and market access for Indian gem and jewellery exporters, with tariff benefits supporting higher exports to New Zealand.