As India raises gold import duty from 6% to 15% amid economic pressure and a weakening rupee, the jewellery industry is preparing for higher prices, evolving demand, and possible market disruption, discovers Khursheed Mistry.

As India raises gold import duty to 15%, leading jewellery players and trade bodies support gold conservation measures while warning of liquidity pressure, export challenges and rising risks to MSMEs.

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.

Ahead of the Union Budget 2026–27, leading jewellery retailers, manufacturers and industry bodies outline expectations on GST, import duties, exports, digital gold regulation, working capital, and policy reforms to strengthen growth.

GJEPC submitted pre-Budget recommendations to the Finance Ministry in Mumbai on January 14, 2026, seeking duty rationalization, tax reforms and SEZ flexibility to support exports amid global trade pressures.

The Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council presented key policy proposals to the Government seeking tax reforms, industry incentives, and regulatory ease to strengthen India’s leadership in diamonds, gold, coloured gemstones, and lab-grown diamonds.

India’s festive gold demand is likely to dip this year as soaring bullion prices threaten to dampen jewellery purchases, industry experts warn.

As changing gold import policies in India reshape buying behaviours, Dubai’s jewellery retailers are adapting fast. Once a top shopping destination for Indian tourists seeking price advantages, the city is now rebranding its appeal through innovative designs, diverse sourcing, and elevated craftsmanship to win back its core South Asian customer base

The Union Budget 2025-26 brings relief and strategic reforms for the jewellery sector. While the customs duty on gold remains steady at 6%, key changes include new tariff classifications for gold and silver, along with significant duty cuts on platinum findings and jewellery components

The World Gold Council (WGC) has expressed concerns about the potential hike in gold import duties in India’s upcoming Union Budget for 2025

The ICRA report projects a robust 14-18% year-on-year growth in India’s gold jewellery consumption for FY25, driven by factors like the customs duty cut, festive demand, and rural income boost. Organised retailers are expected to lead the growth with network expansions and rising consumer preference for branded jewellery

Titan reported a 23% decline in its Q2 profit due to inventory losses and shrinking margins, attributed to the reduction in customs duty on gold imports. Despite this, the company saw strong growth in its jewellery and watches segments

The recent surge in gold prices, driven by U.S. Federal Reserve interest rate cuts and geopolitical tensions, has led to a sharp decline in physical demand across major global markets. Despite a temporary boost in India following an import duty cut, the overall trend shows consumers pulling back as prices hit record highs, prompting many to sell their holdings and profit from the rally

India’s gold market is witnessing a significant boost in demand following a major reduction in import duties