India’s polished diamond exports fell sharply by 16.8% in the fiscal year ending March 2025, totaling $13.29 billion, according to data released by the Gem and Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC). This marks one of the weakest annual performances for the sector in the last two decades, although not the lowest on record—as has been mistakenly reported in some outlets. The lowest figure in recent history remains $12.3 billion in 2005, following $10.3 billion in 2004. In comparison, polished diamond exports for FY2023–24 stood at $15.97 billion.

The broader gem and jewellery export sector also saw a significant downturn. Total exports for FY2024–25 declined by 11.7% to $28.5 billion, the lowest level in four years. Industry leaders have attributed the slump to multiple global challenges, including softening demand in India’s primary export markets—the United States and China—amid ongoing geopolitical uncertainties.

However, recent monthly data suggests the downturn may be stabilizing. Polished diamond exports in March 2025 registered a marginal year-on-year dip of just 0.76%, amounting to $1.16 billion. Meanwhile, total gem and jewellery exports for the month posted a modest 1% growth, reaching $2.58 billion. These signs of resilience have sparked cautious optimism that the sector may be on the path to recovery.

The Israel Diamond Exchange (IDE) has suspended its membership in the World Federation of Diamond Bourses (WFDB), citing dissatisfaction with the organisation’s conduct during the ongoing US import tariff crisis, Rapaport News reported.

In a letter to WFDB Secretary-General Rony Unterman on 8th April, the IDE board said the decision followed unanswered requests for information and actions that had harmed Israel’s diamond trade. IDE President Nissim Zuaretz told Rapaport the move was triggered by WFDB President Yoram Dvash’s comments in Calcalist, where he criticised country-specific lobbying and promoted a global strategy for tariff exemptions.

Zuaretz accused Dvash of trying to take credit for advocacy led by the World Diamond Council (WDC), potentially jeopardising Israel’s own efforts. Dvash denied the claims, telling Rapaport they were “untrue and frankly absurd,” and emphasised the WFDB’s ongoing collaboration with the WDC.

Zuaretz said the IDE would shift focus to partnerships with the WDC and the International Diamond Manufacturers Association (IDMA), while also saving over $29,000 in annual fees. Dvash described IDE’s withdrawal as “rash,” warning it could weaken global unity at a critical time for the industry.

GJEPC hosted Lab-Grown Diamond (LGD) Buyer-Seller Meet (BSM) on 10th – 11th April 2025 at Surat Diamond Bourse (SDB), marking a significant milestone for India’s emerging LGD sector. The event aimed to connect Indian LGD manufacturers with international and domestic buyers in a focused, business-oriented environment. The show opened  on a warm note with the gracious presence of Hon’ble Chief Guest Shri Pareshbhai Patel.

Key Highlights:

• The BSM saw participation from leading LGD manufacturers, traders, and exporters, along with buyers from across the globe, including the USA, UAE, Hong Kong, and Europe.
• Held within the state-of-the-art premises of the SDB, the event showcased India’s growing capabilities in cutting-edge LGD technology, quality production, and competitive pricing.
• The meet was designed to provide pre-scheduled one-on-one meetings, facilitating efficient, transparent, and result-driven business engagements.

Foreign buyers were delighted to be at the LGD BSM, and hoping to create long term business relationships. LGD BSM was a platform to connect  with Indian jewellery manufacturers who offer end-to-end services.

Surat- the diamond city of India , has lived up to its name for Johanna Brierley, Jewelery Design, Canada ,  as she got an opportunity to explore the diverse product range offered by the lab-grown diamond jewellery manufacturers. She is hopeful the meeting will pave the way for long-term business relationships. The USA has a great demand for lab-grown diamond jewellery, and Coomi aims to enter the industry soon. Michelle Kho, Coomi, is awestruck by the diverse product range and end-to-end manufacturing solutions that Indian Jewellery manufacturers offer. Assyly Adilkhan, Pure Gold , wants to cater to young consumers who blend style with elegance in their daily wear. Fashion is non-negotiable for them and an essential part of defining who they are. LGD BSM 2025 helped her to connect with Indian jewellery manufacturers who offer end-to-end services from metal sourcing to manufacturing to cut and polishing, which makes it convenient for her to meet the fast-fashion requirements of her consumers. Overall, she had an enriching experience at the meet.