The escalating U.S.-China trade tensions have ignited a unique 90-day opportunity for India’s gems and jewellery industry to shine on the global stage. As tariffs continue to rise and Western markets look to diversify away from China, India is strategically poised to position itself as a preferred sourcing and manufacturing hub particularly in this high-value, high-potential sector.

Historically, India has been a global leader in jewellery craftsmanship, diamond cutting and polishing, and gemstone artistry. But the current geopolitical climate gives Indian players a chance to elevate their role not just as artisans, but as end-to-end partners in global jewellery supply chains.

With the United States imposing higher duties on Chinese-made jewellery, American retailers are now actively scouting for reliable alternative suppliers. This opens the door for Indian manufacturers to capture larger market share, especially in the mass luxury and bridal segments, where India already enjoys a reputation for design excellence and cost competitiveness.

At the heart of this opportunity lies India’s unmatched ecosystem—skilled labour, centuries of artisanal knowledge, robust manufacturing clusters (like Surat, Jaipur, and Mumbai), and a growing capacity to meet global compliance and sustainability standards. Moreover, India’s capabilities extend beyond traditional jewellery. There’s rising global demand for lightweight gold jewellery, lab-grown diamonds, and fashion-forward fine jewellery areas where Indian exporters are already gaining traction.

Our recent interactions with export customers. During a recent product showcase, leading buyers expressed strong interest in collections crafted specifically for Western tastes underscoring India’s ability to blend heritage with modernity. This validation is a reminder that design innovation and responsiveness to international trends will be key to long-term success.

To truly unlock this opportunity, however, India’s jewellery industry must move swiftly. First, it needs to streamline supply chains, reduce production turnaround times, and invest in smart manufacturing technologies that enhance precision and scale. Second, the industry should embrace aggressive branding and global outreach. India shouldn’t just be seen as a backup to China but as a premium, scalable partner in jewellery innovation and quality.

Government support can further catalyze this growth. Export-friendly policies, faster GST refunds, improved logistics infrastructure, and promotional efforts through trade bodies like GJEPC can make a significant difference. Additionally, a stronger digital presence and participation in global B2B platforms can help connect Indian brands with buyers in the U.S., Europe, and the Middle East.

This 90-day window isn’t just a temporary trade detour it’s a turning point for India’s gems and jewellery sector. If approached strategically, it could transform India’s global standing from a traditional exporter to a next-generation jewellery powerhouse—trusted not just for quality and design, but for scale, innovation, and reliability.

In a world rebalancing its trade partnerships, India’s moment to sparkle has arrived. And it’s wrapped in gold, glitter, and a once-in-a-generation opportunity.