In a strategic move to strengthen India’s gems and jewellery export infrastructure, the Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) has joined hands with AAI Cargo Logistics and Allied Services Company Limited (AAICLAS) to explore the establishment of a dedicated air cargo terminal at Surat Airport.

A high-level meeting between GJEPC officials and AAICLAS CEO Ajay Bhardwaj brought together leading industry representatives, customs house agents, and logistics partners to discuss the initiative aimed at enhancing export logistics in the country’s diamond capital.

Shri Bhardwaj assured AAI’s full support, confirming that AAICLAS would take custodianship responsibility and ensure smooth implementation. “The Airports Authority of India is committed to setting up this facility at the earliest. We will collaborate closely with GJEPC, logistics partners, and exporters to create a world-class air cargo ecosystem,” he stated.

The proposed facility is expected to significantly reduce logistics costs, enable faster export shipments, and elevate Surat Airport as a major global gateway for gems, jewellery, and diamond exports. It will also complement the upcoming operationalisation of the Surat Diamond Bourse, further enhancing the city’s global trade prominence.

GJEPC extended special thanks to Linesh Shah, Convenor of the Air Cargo Committee, and Nikhil Madrasi, President of the Southern Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SGCCI), for their proactive involvement in driving the initiative.

“This collaborative effort marks a milestone in realising a long-pending vision — a state-of-the-art air cargo facility that will empower Surat’s exports and reinforce India’s global leadership in the gems and jewellery sector,” said a GJEPC spokesperson.