International News
GIA Suspends Acceptance of Overseas Submissions Requiring US Shipment
The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) has temporarily suspended the acceptance of goods at its international laboratories that require shipping to the US for services. This decision comes in response to new tariffs introduced by President Donald Trump’s administration.
In a recent communication to clients, GIA advised customers outside the US to refrain from sending items directly to its American labs for grading or other services. The institute explained that a baseline 10% tariff now applies to all goods imported into the US, with additional duties imposed on items from countries such as India, South Africa, and Thailand starting April 9. These tariffs affect gems sent for laboratory services, even if they are not intended for sale.
“There is a baseline 10% tariff on goods being imported into the US,” the GIA explained. “Additional tariffs for products from specific countries, including India, South Africa, Thailand and others, will begin on April 9. These tariffs will apply to gems being shipped to a GIA laboratory in the US, even if only for laboratory services and not for sale.”
The US recently implemented steep “reciprocal” tariffs, including a 27% import duty on Indian goods and 20% on those from the EU. While a Temporary Importation Under Bond (TIB) provision exists to exempt goods not for sale, industry experts have cast doubt on its applicability, asserting there are no valid exemptions for imported goods.
GIA acknowledged the potential confusion caused by these regulatory changes and urged clients to ensure compliance with US import laws. The organization is assessing the situation and considering operational adjustments to maintain service continuity at its international labs. Meanwhile, clients are responsible for any tariff charges incurred when shipping to GIA’s US locations, based on the country where the diamond was substantially transformed.
International News
GJEPC Brisbane Outreach Connects Indian Exporters With Queensland Jewellery Trade
India’s Gem and Jewellery Exports To Australia Reached US$374.33 Million In FY2025–26, Up 16% From US$322.72 Million A Year Earlier
The Brisbane portion of GJEPC’s Australia-New Zealand trade mission brought Indian gem and jewellery exporters into discussions with Queensland’s jewellery retailers, wholesalers and business bodies, while reinforcing the opportunities created by the India-Australia ECTA.
Led by Vijay Mangukiya, Convener – International Events, GJEPC, the delegation visited Brisbane on 24-25 August 2026 and met Ms. Neetu M. Bhagotia, Consul General of India in Brisbane, as part of its engagement with the local jewellery and business community.
India’s gem and jewellery exports to Australia reached US$374.33 million in FY2025–26, up 16% from US$322.72 million a year earlier, as the India–Australia ECTA’s tariff-free market access continues to open opportunities for Indian exporters.
Sridhar Iyengar, Director – International Events, GJEPC, facilitated B2B interactions with local jewellery businesses and representatives of industry and business organisations. The programme included Michael Hill, Salt Wholesaling, Omi En Vogue, Prince Jewellers, along with representatives from Business Chamber Queensland and the Australia India Business Council. The outreach also took the delegation to established jewellery stores such as Wallace Bishop and Hardy Brothers, providing an on-ground view of Australian jewellery retail presentation and merchandising.
The engagement provided the Indian delegation with a closer understanding of Queensland’s retail and wholesale landscape and opportunities to connect Indian manufacturing capabilities with local businesses. The participating Indian companies span natural and lab-grown diamonds, gold, silver, platinum, coloured gemstones and contemporary jewellery.
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