National News

SEEPZ jewellery exporters want govt nod to manufacture for the domestic market amid job loss fears

Published

12 months ago

March 21, 2025

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Jewellery exporters at SEEPZ in Mumbai have requested government permission to manufacture jewellery for the domestic market, anticipating job losses due to forthcoming US tariffs. The US’s reciprocal tariffs could severely impact India’s jewellery exports. Industry leaders suggest reducing import duties on US gold jewellery or permitting domestic production to safeguard jobs and sustain the sector.

Jewellery units at SEEPZ, numbering around 200, employ 50,000 permanent and a similar number of contract workers.SEEPZ-SEZ has the largest concentration of manufacturers in India for diamond-studded precious metal jewellery.

Currently, India imposes a 20% import duty on US gold jewellery, significantly higher than the 5.5-7.0% tariff levied by the US on Indian gold jewellery. Similarly, India enforces a 5% duty on cut and polished diamonds, whereas the US imposes none. Under the proposed reciprocal measures, Washington may escalate tariffs on these Indian exports, rendering them less competitive in the US market.

The impending implementation of reciprocal tariffs by the United States on Indian jewellery exports has raised significant concerns within the industry. Given that SEEPZ accounts for jewellery exports worth ₹28,000 crore annually, with 85% directed to the US, these tariffs pose a considerable threat to employment and industry sustainability.

“The government has told us that it is under consideration,” said Adil Kotwal, president of the SEEPZ Gems & Jewellery Manufacturers Association. The government will have to issue a notification to change the special economic zone (SEZ) status for the jewellery units there to sell in the domestic market, he said. “All our units are compliant according to international standards. So, if we get the bullion and diamonds for the domestic units, we can produce quality jewellery,” Kotwal said.

The jewellery export industry in India is at a critical juncture. The imposition of reciprocal US tariffs demands proactive policy measures to safeguard employment and industry viability. By either reducing import duties on US jewellery or permitting domestic sales from SEEPZ, the Indian government can provide crucial support to exporters. In the face of evolving global trade dynamics, strategic policy interventions and adaptive industry responses will be key to ensuring the resilience of India’s jewellery sector.

BrandBuzz

The Pearl Edit: Thoughtful Women’s Day Gifting by GIVA

Timeless pearl creations from GIVA that honour the quiet strength, elegance, and individuality of modern women.

Published

14 hours ago

March 6, 2026

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For generations, pearls have defined timeless elegance — an evergreen classic that transcends trends and seasons. Effortlessly refined, they carry a quiet sophistication that has remained relevant across eras.

Neither fleeting nor ornamental, pearls embody a kind of understated luxury, graceful, enduring, and always in style.

This Women’s Day, GIVA celebrates women who are building, leading, choosing, and redefining life on their own terms. Women who don’t need to be loud to be powerful, because their presence speaks for itself.

In that spirit, pearls make for a meaningful gift. Timeless yet modern, they move effortlessly from everyday moments to milestone celebrations, making them a thoughtful way to honour the women who inspire us, whether it’s a mentor, a friend, a colleague, or even yourself.

Here are some pearl pieces that make for perfect Women’s Day gifts.

Stay With Me Golden Pendant With Link Chain

For the one who wears her heart unapologetically. A radiant pearl drop pendant set in gold-plated 925 silver, designed with an elegant lattice motif that blends timeless romance with modern craftsmanship. From the Barkha Singh x GIVA Glow in Motion collection, this piece celebrates intricate CNC artistry while offering a refined statement for everyday elegance.

Gold Pearl Centred Diamond Earrings

Elegant and timeless, these 18K BIS-hallmarked gold earrings feature a delicate circular motif with a luminous pearl at the centre, accented by sparkling lab-grown diamonds below. Designed for everyday luxury, they blend classic sophistication with modern brilliance, making them a graceful statement for any occasion.

Rose Gold On Mom’s Path Bracelet

A heartfelt rose gold-plated bracelet crafted in 925 silver, featuring a charming baby shoe motif with enamel detailing, a delicate pearl accent, and a subtle “mom” engraving. Thoughtfully designed to celebrate the unbreakable bond between a mother and her child, it makes for a meaningful keepsake.

Anushka Sharma Silver Drops of Pearls Set

Inspired by the hidden beauty of ocean pearls, the Anushka Sharma Silver Drop of Pearl Set captures effortless elegance with a graceful pearl drop and sparkling zircon accents. Crafted in 925 silver, the set includes a delicate pendant and matching earrings designed to add timeless charm to any look.

Rose Gold Glam Drops Necklace

Graceful and statement-making, this rose gold-plated lariat necklace in 925 silver features a central oblong pearl with delicate cascading strands ending in luminous pearls. Elegant yet contemporary, it’s the perfect piece to elevate evening looks and special occasions with effortless glamour.