National News
GJEPC addresses issue of Termination of IEEPA-Based Reciprocal Tariffs
GJEPC informed all exporter members of an important interim development concerning U.S. import duties applicable to Indian exports, particularly in the gem and jewellery sector.
The Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) informed all exporter members of an important interim development concerning U.S. import duties applicable to Indian exports, particularly in the gem and jewellery sector.
A letter issued by Sabyasachi Ray, Executive Director, GJEPC, addressed the Termination of IEEPA-Based Reciprocal Tariffs and outlined key implications for exporters.

Termination of IEEPA-Based Reciprocal Tariffs
Pursuant to the Executive Order dated February 20, 2026, titled “Ending Certain Tariff Actions”, the additional ad valorem duties imposed under IEEPA, including the reciprocal tariff framework under Executive Order 14257, shall no longer remain in effect and are directed to be terminated as soon as practicable.
Accordingly, entries made on or after February 20, 2026 should not be subject to the earlier IEEPA-based reciprocal tariffs.
1. Interim Window Prior to Section 122 Surcharge
A separate Presidential Proclamation dated February 20, 2026 imposes a temporary 10% surcharge under Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974, effective 12:01 a.m. EST on February 24, 2026.
Therefore, between: February 20, 2026 – before 12:01 a.m. EST on February 24, 2026 imports into the United States should be subject only to ordinarily applicable HTSUS (MFN) rates, without the earlier reciprocal tariff, and prior to the commencement of the Section 122 surcharge.
For products such as cut and polished diamonds (where the MFN rate is ordinarily 0%), this period represents a limited operational window.
2. Refund Position (If Collected in Error or Due to Implementation Lag)
In cases where reciprocal IEEPA duties are collected due to implementation lag, such duties should be eligible for refund through the standard:
- U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) protest mechanism under 19 U.S.C. §1514, or
- Post-summary correction procedures, as applicable.
However, exporters should note that there is no assurance that the refund process will not be time-consuming.
3. Important Caution for Exporters
While GJEPC is actively engaging with U.S. customs authorities and keeping customs at Bharat Diamond Bourse informed, members are strongly advised to:
- Seek confirmation from their U.S. customs broker and trade counsel
- Obtain written confirmation from their U.S. buyer/importer regarding entry treatment
- Confirm that CBP has ceased collection of the reciprocal tariff at the port of entry
Given the evolving implementation environment, entry-level verification is critical.
Members are encouraged to carefully assess:
- Shipment timing
- Entry dates
- Applicable HTS classification
before dispatching consignments, wherever applicable.
source: GJEPC
National News
GJS 2026 Diwali Edition Concludes On A High Note With Record Sales
The All India Gem & Jewellery Domestic Council (GJC) successfully concluded the landmark 10th edition of the India Gem & Jewellery Show (GJS 2026 Diwali Edition), celebrated as #HumaraApnaShow, at the Jio World Convention Centre, Mumbai. From October 2–4, 2026, the exhibition reaffirmed its position as India’s most premium B2B jewellery platform, bringing together over 400 exhibitors, 700+ booths, and thousands of buyers and industry leaders from across India and abroad.

The show began on October 1, 2026, with the Elite Family Jewellers Meet & Business Workshop, led by India’s leading business coach Rahul Jain, designed exclusively for jewellery business owners and their families. The workshop provided participants with strategies on growth, profitability, leadership, and customer acquisition, setting the stage for an enriching exhibition.
The show was inaugurated on October 2, 2026, by Chief Guest Shri Uday Samant Ji, Cabinet Minister for Industries and Marathi Language, Government of Maharashtra, who lauded GJS as a platform that reflects the strength, creativity, and resilience of India’s jewellery industry. He emphasized Maharashtra’s role as a hub for trade and craftsmanship, noting that GJS showcases how tradition and innovation can come together to drive growth. His words set the tone for an inspiring edition that celebrated both heritage and modernity.
Guest of Honour Srinivas Injeti, Chairman NSE and Chairman of the board IAGES, Mahesh Jain, President, UP Sarafa Association, and Special Guest Rajiv Jain, Chairman, Jaipur Jewelley Show along with members of the GJC Committee of Administration and other senior industry leaders, underscoring the collective strength and unity of India’s jewellery fraternity.


On October 3, the prestigious National Jewellery Awards (NJA) 2026, presented by the World Gold Council and powered by India Gold Metaverse, honoured excellence across categories. The evening was graced by Bollywood star Sonakshi Sinha, who presented awards to the winners, adding glamour and recognition to the industry’s most coveted celebration.
Throughout the three days, GJS hosted MindSpeak Seminars, covering diverse topics across all aspects of the jewellery business — from sustainable practices and digital transformation to consumer trends, family business strategies, and the growing role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in design, retail, and customer engagement. These sessions empowered jewellers with insights to adapt to evolving market dynamics and embrace technology-driven growth.
The exhibition also showcased exclusive collections ranging from lightweight contemporary designs to heritage-inspired masterpieces, lab-grown diamond innovations, and couture jewellery.
Rajesh Rokde, Chairman of GJC, said:

“The successful conclusion of the 10th edition of GJS is a proud moment for India’s jewellery industry. From the grand inauguration led by Shri Uday Samant Ji to the NJA awards presented by Sonakshi Sinha, this edition has set new benchmarks in innovation, networking, and business growth. The record sales figures highlight the resilience of our industry and the trust consumers place in Indian craftsmanship.”
Avinash Gupta, Vice Chairman of GJC, remarked:
“GJS2026 has proven to be the ultimate sourcing destination for jewellers nationwide. The strong participation, exclusive collections, and vibrant sales reflect the industry’s ability to balance heritage with modernity. The NJA awards further reinforced the industry’s credibility by honouring talent and innovation, making this edition truly memorable.”

Saiyam Mehra, Convenor of GJS and GJC NEXTGEN and Past Chairman of GJC, added:

“This edition of GJS was more than an exhibition—it was a celebration of resilience, creativity, and opportunity. As Convenor of GJS, I am proud to see how these platforms together showcased innovation, honoured excellence, and inspired the industry to embrace the future with confidence. The seminars, awards, and unique showcases have strengthened our collective vision for India’s jewellery sector as a global hub of excellence.”
The 10th edition of GJS concluded with resounding success, leaving behind a legacy of innovation, collaboration, and celebration that will continue to inspire the jewellery industry in the years to come.

Uday Samant, Cabinet Minister for Industries and Marathi Language, Government of Maharashtra, unveiled the JewelBuzz GJS Diwali Edition Special Issue, featuring Rajesh Rokde, Chairman, GJC, on the cover.
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