On April 24, the Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) led by Chairman Mr. Kirit Bhansali held a high-level industry interaction in Surat, bringing together major stakeholders to address current challenges, including the recent US tariffs, and to strategize for future growth.

Joining Mr. Bhansali were Mr. Saunak Parikh, Vice Chairman; Mr. Sabyasachi Ray, Executive Director; and Mr. Jayanti Savaliya, Regional Chairman – Gujarat. They were welcomed by industry stalwarts including Mr. Govindbhai Dholakia (MP – Rajya Sabha and Chairman, Surat Diamond Bourse), Mr. Laljibhai Patel, Mr. Nagjibhai Sakariya, Mr. Vallabh Lakhani, and heads of associations representing natural and lab-grown diamonds and jewellery manufacturers.

A key focus of the meet was the impact of recent US import tariffs on Indian exports. Mr. Ray presented a detailed overview of the situation, while Mr. Savaliya shared positive updates on resolving Customs-related issues affecting the trade.

Emphasizing the city’s importance, Mr. Bhansali stated, “Surat is not just a city of diamonds; it is the pride of our industry.” He praised its critical role in the global supply chain and reaffirmed GJEPC’s commitment to supporting the region.

Mr. Dholakia applauded GJEPC for building trust between the industry and policymakers, while Mr. Parikh highlighted future opportunities. He suggested that India could benefit strategically from the shifting global dynamics caused by the US tariffs and identified silver jewellery as “the next big thing” for expansion. He also stressed the need to promote direct rough diamond trading in Surat.

The event concluded with a unified commitment to strengthening India’s position as a global leader in gems and jewellery, with Surat at the heart of that vision.