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 Trump’s reciprocal tariffs spark job loss fears in GJ sector

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The U.S. government’s move to impose reciprocal tariffs has sent ripples of concern through India’s gem and jewellery sector, a vital component of the nation’s economy. Here’s a breakdown of the key issues and implications:

The Core Issue: Reciprocal Tariffs and Trade Imbalance

Unequal Tariff Structures: The heart of the issue lies in the perceived imbalance in tariff structures between the U.S. and India. India currently levies a 20% tariff on gold jewellery imported from the U.S., while the U.S. applies a significantly lower duty of 5.5-7% on Indian gold jewellery. Similarly, India imposes a 5% tariff on cut and polished diamonds, whereas the U.S. has historically maintained zero tariffs on these Indian exports. This discrepancy has prompted the U.S. to consider reciprocal tariffs, aiming to create a more level playing field.
Potential Impact on Exports: The U.S. is a critical market for Indian gem and jewellery exports. Any increase in U.S. tariffs would directly raise the cost of Indian products for American consumers, potentially reducing demand and negatively impacting export volumes.
Key Export Categories at Risk: The primary export categories facing potential disruptions include:
• Cut and polished diamonds: A major export segment, historically enjoying tariff-free access to the U.S. market.
• Studded gold jewellery: A significant contributor to export revenue.
• Plain gold jewellery: Another essential export commodity.
• Lab-grown diamonds: A growing sector within the Indian gem and jewellery industry.

Economic and Social Implications for India

• Impact on Export Revenue: A decline in gem and jewellery exports would directly affect India’s foreign exchange earnings.
• Employment Concerns: The industry is a significant employer, providing livelihoods to over two million people, with a substantial portion being women and individuals from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. Tariff-induced disruptions could lead to job losses and economic hardship for these vulnerable populations.
• Industry Vulnerability: While not the single largest export driver, the gem and jewellery sector holds a vital position in India’s economy. Its labor intensive nature, and the high value of its exports makes it very important.
• Trade Relations: The tariff issue has the potential to strain trade relations between India and the U.S., potentially impacting other areas of economic cooperation.

Factors to Consider

• Market Dynamics: The extent of the impact will depend on the magnitude of the tariff hikes and the ability of Indian exporters to absorb the increased costs or find alternative markets.
• Negotiations: The outcome will also depend on the results of ongoing or future trade negotiations between the two countries.
• Lab-grown Diamonds: The lab-grown diamond market is fairly new, and very dynamic. Any tariff changes could drastically alter the market share of Indian companies in the United States.
In essence, the potential imposition of reciprocal tariffs by the U.S. poses a significant challenge to India’s gem and jewellery industry, with potential ramifications for export revenue, employment, and overall economic stability.

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Joyalukkas Foundation Hands Over 50 ‘Joy Homes’ to Underprivileged Families in Karnataka

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Joyalukkas Foundation handed over 50 newly constructed ‘Joy Homes’ to underprivileged families across Karnataka as a step toward improving the living conditions of marginalised communities. The initiative, part of the Foundation’s ongoing “Joy Homes” project, was formally marked by a key handover ceremony held at the NIMHANS Convention Centre in Bengaluru.

The ceremony was presided over by Dr. Joy Alukkas, Chairman of the Joyalukkas Group, and attended by prominent dignitaries including Mohammed Rihan Nawab (CEO, Emmar Properties), Mohammed Rizwan Nawab (Vice Chairman, KSRTC), Chetan Kumar Mehta (President, Jeweller’s Association, Bengaluru), and Thomas Mathew (Executive Director, Joyalukkas).

The Joy Homes initiative is rooted in the Foundation’s broader commitment to addressing basic human needs through sustainable and inclusive development efforts. Each of the homes, measuring 500 square feet and built at a cost of ₹7.5 lakh, aims to offer not just shelter, but also dignity, safety, and stability to those often left at the margins of society. Beneficiaries of the scheme include families affected by poverty, natural disasters, chronic illness (such as Endosulfan exposure), and disability.

With the latest addition in Karnataka, the total number of homes provided under the Joy Homes initiative has risen to 414 across Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka. In a further expansion of the programme, the Foundation also announced a new project to build 50 additional homes in Telangana, extending the reach of its housing efforts across South India. Since its inception in 2009, the Joyalukkas Foundation has focused its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activities on areas such as healthcare access, education, elder care, and women’s empowerment, prioritising interventions that address systemic gaps in underserved communities. Its healthcare initiatives include the monthly distribution of over 1,000 dialysis kits in Kerala, the donation of dialysis machines, the renovation of hospital wards, and ongoing support for palliative care and blood donation drives.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Foundation supported the education of over 300 children who lost a parent through scholarships under its “Joy of Hope” programme. In Thrissur, Kerala, the Foundation also operates a senior citizen care facility that includes a dialysis centre, palliative care unit, and other specialized services. Additionally, through vocational training in beautician skills and tailoring, over 200 women have been equipped with the means to achieve financial independence. The Joy Homes project reflects the Foundation’s belief that stable housing is a fundamental step toward social upliftment. By addressing a core need, it enables vulnerable families to focus on rebuilding their lives, accessing opportunities, and securing a better future.

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AVR Swarna Mahal Jewellers Expands Legacy with New Showroom in Perambalur

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Marking a new chapter in its illustrious journey, AVR Swarna Mahal Jewellers has officially inaugurated its brand-new showroom in Perambalur, bringing its legacy of trust, craftsmanship, and tradition to a fresh audience. The grand opening on May 25, 2025, was celebrated with exclusive offers and warm local reception, adding another gleaming milestone to the brand’s growing footprint.

With this launch, AVR Swarna Mahal now proudly operates 20 retail outlets across Tamil Nadu and neighbouring regions, further solidifying its presence as one of South India’s most beloved jewellery destinations.

The Perambalur showroom promises a wide array of exquisitely crafted pieces across categories — gold, diamond, silver, and Vendi silver jewellery — designed to meet both traditional and contemporary tastes. To commemorate the launch, the store is offering special inaugural discounts:

AVR Shreesmaran, Director of AVR Swarna Mahal stated, “With every new store, we bring not just jewellery, but a heritage of trust and fine artistry. Perambalur is a significant addition to our family, and we look forward to becoming a part of the lives and celebrations of the people here.”

  • AVR Swarna Mahal has built a reputation over decades for its exceptional quality, customer service, and commitment to purity. The new Perambalur showroom carries forward this tradition, offering a seamless shopping experience in an elegant, welcoming environment.

Customers can now explore a world where every sparkle tells a story, and where tradition meets timeless beauty — right in the heart of Perambalur. and both precious and semi-precious stones.

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Senco Gold Shares Rise as Q4 Profit Nearly Doubles to ₹94 Cr; EBITDA Margin Improves to 9.2%

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Shares of Senco Gold rose 2.11% to ₹388.85 after the company posted a sharp rise in earnings for the fourth quarter ended March 2025. The company’s net profit nearly doubled — rising 94.1% year-on-year (YoY) to ₹94 crore — driven by strong revenue growth and improved operational performance. Revenue from operations for Q4 stood at ₹1,377.71 crore, up 21.1% compared to Q4 FY24.

Profit before tax (PBT) increased by 62.4% YoY to ₹85.08 crore, while EBITDA rose 44.8% to ₹127.01 crore. The EBITDA margin improved by 150 basis points to 9.2%, reflecting better cost efficiency and higher value sales.

Operating expenses for the quarter grew by 19.2% to ₹1,250.69 crore. The cost of materials consumed increased 21.6% to ₹1,146.46 crore, and employee benefit expenses rose 27.1% to ₹35.65 crore.

For the full fiscal year FY25, Senco reported a 20.7% increase in revenue to ₹6,328.07 crore. However, net profit declined by 12% to ₹159.31 crore due to a one-time impact from a customs duty cut in July 2024. Adjusted PAT for FY25 stood at ₹207.9 crore, a YoY growth of 10.1%.

Suvankar Sen, Managing Director & CEO, highlighted the company’s robust Q4 performance, with same-store sales growth (SSSG) at 18% and a 21% volume growth in diamond jewellery, which translated to a 38% rise in value terms. Company-owned outlets, contributing 64% of retail revenues, posted a 21% growth, while the franchise segment, contributing 36%, grew by 28% YoY.

The company opened five new showrooms in Q4, across COCO, FOCO, and FOFO models. Senco also saw a surge in old gold exchanges, which made up 40% of total sales, with 61% of that coming from new, non-Senco customers.

Senco Gold, a prominent national jewellery retailer, offers a wide range of products including gold, diamond, Polki, Platinum, Kundan, Jadau, silver, and both precious and semi-precious stones.

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