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
GJC lauds GST 2.0, says it is landmark reform that ushers in a new era of trust, transparency, for GJ sector
It reflects the government’s commitment to ease of doing business and provides jewellers with the confidence to focus on growth, innovation, and customer service.
Rajesh Rokde, Chairman -GJC issued a statement on The 57th GST Council recommendation. Which included a series of measures to simplify tax administration, accelerate refunds and reduce compliance costs, with potential benefits for India’s gem and jewellery manufacturers, exporters, wholesalers and retailers.
The statement read:
GST 2.0 is a landmark reform that ushers in a new era of trust, transparency, and efficiency for the gems and jewellery sector. It reflects the government’s commitment to ease of doing business and provides jewellers with the confidence to focus on growth, innovation, and customer service.
These progressive steps will strengthen industry credibility, safeguard livelihoods, and contribute to sustainable development across India. The Council’s recommendations comprehensively address areas that jewellers have long sought reform in — from smoother movement of goods in transit and faster automated refunds that improve cash flow, to fairer notices that reduce litigation and ensure natural justice.
The rationalization of penalties, reduction of the general penalty cap, and recognition of employee insurance ITC reflect a balanced approach that values both compliance and care for our workforce. Most importantly, the withdrawal of arrest powers and the increase in prosecution thresholds will instill greater trust and confidence across the trade.
Together, these measures will reduce disruption, improve working capital, safeguard livelihoods, and create a more supportive business environment. GJC wholeheartedly welcomes GST 2.0 as a forward-looking framework that empowers jewellers, enhances industry credibility, and contributes to sustainable growth for one of India’s most vital sectors
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