India’s gem and jewellery exports totalled $27.72 billion in FY2025–26, reflecting a structural shift towards diversified markets and value-added segments amid global uncertainties and declining dependence on the US market.

Escalating conflict in West Asia has disrupted India’s gem and jewellery trade, halting diamond shipments and logistics through Dubai and threatening exports and rough supply for the country’s $30-billion industry.

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.

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.

De Beers Group introduced its ‘Heera Hai Aapke Liye’ program at IIJS Bharat Signature to strengthen natural diamond demand in India by enabling retailers through the INDRA alliance and expanding structured access nationwide.

India adopts IS 19469:2025 on January 15, 2026, reserving the term “diamond” exclusively for natural diamonds, mandating clear disclosure for laboratory-grown diamonds to address consumer confusion and standardize trade practices.

IIJS Bharat – Signature 2026 concluded in Mumbai on January 15, recording an estimated ?75,000 crore in business, driven by strong domestic buying, international participation, and focused sourcing across categories.

GIA plays a key role in establishing authenticity and trust in jewellery retail — it brings credibility, transparency, and confidence to the entire ecosystem, Amit Pratihari, MD, GIA India, tells Khursheed Mistry.

IIJS Signature is the first jewellery event of 2026, and it will set the tone for the rest of the year, says Shaunak Parikh, Vice Chairman, GJEPC, in a conversation with Dhwani Rathod.

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.

The landmark policy aims to attract Rs.1 lakh crore in investments and generate over 5 lakh new jobs, positioning Maharashtra as a global hub for jewellery manufacturing, exports, and design.

The Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) has appealed to Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman for urgent relief measures to help the Indian gem and jewellery industry withstand the financial strain caused by the recent 50% tariff imposed by the United States, which threatens exports, jobs, and sector competitiveness.

GJEPC has announced its newly elected Committee of Administration members for 2025, strengthening representation across key jewellery sectors including diamonds, silver, gold, studded jewellery, lab-grown diamonds, and regional leadership.