National News
CEPA completes 3 years; powering India-UAE trade and economic ties
Bilateral gem and jewellery trade surged from US$ 20.88 billion in FY2022 to US$ 28.15 billion in FY2024, reflecting a robust 35% increase
The *Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA)* between *India and the UAE*, formalised on 18th February 2022, has profoundly strengthened economic ties between the two nations. As we commemorate its third anniversary, it is evident that CEPA has significantly enhanced trade opportunities, particularly for India’s gem and jewellery industry.
Since CEPA’s implementation, trade between India and the UAE has witnessed remarkable growth. The bilateral gem and jewellery trade surged from US$ 20.88 billion in FY2022 to US$ 28.15 billion in FY2024, reflecting a robust 35% increase. India’s gem and jewellery exports to the UAE also soared by over 60%, from US$ 4.95 billion in FY2022 to US$ 8.04 billion in FY2024.
Notably, UAE’s share in India’s total exports rose from 13% in FY2022 to 25% in FY2024, overtaking Hong Kong as India’s second-largest export market. This underscores the transformative impact of CEPA on India’s trade dynamics.
One of the most significant benefits of CEPA has been the duty-free access for all gem and jewellery products, including gold, silver, and platinum jewellery, along with polished diamonds and gemstones.This development has motivated Indian exporters to increase their supply of various gem and jewellery items to the UAE, capitalising on the enhanced market access provided by the agreement.
This policy shift has led to substantial growth in key export categories:
Plain Gold Jewellery: Exports surged by 127.62%, reaching US$ 4,240 million in FY2024.
Studded Gold Jewellery: Increased by over 50%, from US$ 917 million in FY2022 to US$ 1,382 million in FY2024.
Worked Lab-Grown Diamonds: Witnessed a 58.16% growth, reaching US$ 172 million in FY2024.
Platinum Jewellery: Recorded a staggering 820.87% increase, reaching US$ 23 million.
Coloured Gemstones: Grew by 17.19% to US$ 9.34 million
*Kirit Bhansali*, Chairman, GJEPC, said, “The India-UAE CEPA has propelled our gem and jewellery exports to new heights, growing by over 60% from US$ 4.95 billion in FY2022 to US$ 8.04 billion in FY2024. The UAE now accounts for nearly a quarter of India’s total gem and jewellery exports, surpassing Hong Kong. The duty-free advantage has unlocked immense opportunities, particularly in plain gold jewellery, which saw a 127% surge. As we celebrate three years of CEPA, we remain committed to strengthening this vital partnership and exploring new avenues for growth.”
National News
VBJ Set To Host Madurai With An Exclusive Jewellery Showcase
Experience Timeless Craftsmanship Through An Exquisite Selection Of Gold, Diamond, Solitaire and Precious Stone Jewellery
VBJ, Vummidi Bangaru Jewellers, India’s most trusted heirloom jewellery brand, is set to host an exclusive two-day jewellery sale and exhibition in Madurai on 26th and 27th August 2026 at Fortune Pandiyan Hotel, Pandyan Hall, SH 72, Outpost, Ramaond Reserve Line, Madurai. Bringing its signature craftsmanship closer to customers, the exhibition will offer an opportunity to explore an extensive range of jewellery, along with an exclusive offer of Rs. 125 extra on exchange of old gold. The exhibition will remain open from 11 AM to 8 PM on both days.
Visitors can explore a diverse range of jewellery, from elaborate bridal masterpieces and statement necklaces to elegant everyday pieces, including bangles, earrings, rings, chains and gemstones. Bringing together the beauty of traditional artistry and contemporary design, the showcase reflects VBJ’s commitment to creating timeless pieces crafted with exceptional finesse and quality.
Speaking about the exhibition Amarendran Vummidi, Managing Partner, VBJ, said:
“Madurai has a rich appreciation for jewellery, and we are delighted to bring our signature collections closer to customers in the city. As a brand with a legacy spanning generations, our journey has always been rooted in preserving the heritage while evolving with the tastes of today’s customers. This exhibition is an opportunity for us to bring that legacy closer to jewellery enthusiasts in Madurai and celebrate the enduring appreciation for the fine craft that the city represents.”
Adding to this, Jithendra Vummidi, Managing Partner, VBJ, said:
“Craftsmanship has always been at the heart of every VBJ creation, with each piece reflecting our commitment to detail and quality. Through this exhibition, we are bringing together an extensive selection of gold, diamond, solitaire and precious stone jewellery to offer customers a distinctive experience, whether they are looking for a bespoke bridal creation or an elegant piece for everyday wear.”
As a fifth-generation family-run brand, VBJ takes immense pride in its legacy as the creator of the historic Sengol (sceptre) – a sacred symbol of India’s democratic journey. Rediscovered after 72 years through meticulous research by the VBJ team, the Sengol was reinstated beside the Speaker’s chair in India’s new Parliament building, Sansad Bhavan, by Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi, marking VBJ’s enduring bond with India’s cultural and national heritage.
Further strengthening its regional presence, VBJ is set to open its all-new showroom on Coimbatore’s 100ft Road soon, reaffirming the brand’s long-term commitment to serving customers across Tamil Nadu with personalised experiences and exceptional craftsmanship.
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