Ahead of the India-UK CETA taking effect on July 15, 2026, GJEPC hosted a London Buyer-Seller Meet to connect Indian exporters with UK buyers and expand bilateral gem and jewellery trade.

The Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council has sought regulatory relief from the Reserve Bank of India, citing liquidity constraints, extended payment cycles and financing challenges affecting India’s export-oriented gem and jewellery sector.

IAGES appointed GJEPC Chairman Kirit Bhansali as Nominee Director on May 11, 2026, adding industry and institutional experience to support the association’s objectives and sector development initiatives.

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.