National News
Trump’s reciprocal tariffs spark job loss fears in GJ sector
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.
The All India Gem & Jewellery Domestic Council (GJC) successfully concluded the landmark 10th edition of the India Gem & Jewellery Show (GJS 2026 Diwali Edition), celebrated as #HumaraApnaShow, at the Jio World Convention Centre, Mumbai. From October 2–4, 2026, the exhibition reaffirmed its position as India’s most premium B2B jewellery platform, bringing together over 400 exhibitors, 700+ booths, and thousands of buyers and industry leaders from across India and abroad.
The show began on October 1, 2026, with the Elite Family Jewellers Meet & Business Workshop, led by India’s leading business coach Rahul Jain, designed exclusively for jewellery business owners and their families. The workshop provided participants with strategies on growth, profitability, leadership, and customer acquisition, setting the stage for an enriching exhibition.
The show was inaugurated on October 2, 2026, by Chief Guest Shri Uday Samant Ji, Cabinet Minister for Industries and Marathi Language, Government of Maharashtra, who lauded GJS as a platform that reflects the strength, creativity, and resilience of India’s jewellery industry. He emphasized Maharashtra’s role as a hub for trade and craftsmanship, noting that GJS showcases how tradition and innovation can come together to drive growth. His words set the tone for an inspiring edition that celebrated both heritage and modernity.
Guest of Honour Srinivas Injeti, Chairman NSE and Chairman of the board IAGES, Mahesh Jain, President, UP Sarafa Association, and Special Guest Rajiv Jain, Chairman, Jaipur Jewelley Show along with members of the GJC Committee of Administration and other senior industry leaders, underscoring the collective strength and unity of India’s jewellery fraternity.
On October 3, the prestigious National Jewellery Awards (NJA) 2026, presented by the World Gold Council and powered by India Gold Metaverse, honoured excellence across categories. The evening was graced by Bollywood star Sonakshi Sinha, who presented awards to the winners, adding glamour and recognition to the industry’s most coveted celebration.
Throughout the three days, GJS hosted MindSpeak Seminars, covering diverse topics across all aspects of the jewellery business — from sustainable practices and digital transformation to consumer trends, family business strategies, and the growing role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in design, retail, and customer engagement. These sessions empowered jewellers with insights to adapt to evolving market dynamics and embrace technology-driven growth.
The exhibition also showcased exclusive collections ranging from lightweight contemporary designs to heritage-inspired masterpieces, lab-grown diamond innovations, and couture jewellery.
Rajesh Rokde, Chairman of GJC, said:
“The successful conclusion of the 10th edition of GJS is a proud moment for India’s jewellery industry. From the grand inauguration led by Shri Uday Samant Ji to the NJA awards presented by Sonakshi Sinha, this edition has set new benchmarks in innovation, networking, and business growth. The record sales figures highlight the resilience of our industry and the trust consumers place in Indian craftsmanship.”
Avinash Gupta, Vice Chairman of GJC, remarked:
“GJS2026 has proven to be the ultimate sourcing destination for jewellers nationwide. The strong participation, exclusive collections, and vibrant sales reflect the industry’s ability to balance heritage with modernity. The NJA awards further reinforced the industry’s credibility by honouring talent and innovation, making this edition truly memorable.”
Saiyam Mehra, Convenor of GJS and GJC NEXTGEN and Past Chairman of GJC, added:
“This edition of GJS was more than an exhibition—it was a celebration of resilience, creativity, and opportunity. As Convenor of GJS, I am proud to see how these platforms together showcased innovation, honoured excellence, and inspired the industry to embrace the future with confidence. The seminars, awards, and unique showcases have strengthened our collective vision for India’s jewellery sector as a global hub of excellence.”
The 10th edition of GJS concluded with resounding success, leaving behind a legacy of innovation, collaboration, and celebration that will continue to inspire the jewellery industry in the years to come.
Uday Samant, Cabinet Minister for Industries and Marathi Language, Government of Maharashtra, unveiled the JewelBuzz GJS Diwali Edition Special Issue, featuring Rajesh Rokde, Chairman, GJC, on the cover.
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JewelBuzz is Asia’s First Digital Jewellery Media & India’s No.1 B2B Jewellery Magazine, published by AM Media House. Since 2016, we’ve been the trusted source for jewellery news, market trends, trade insights, exhibitions, podcasts, and brand stories, connecting jewellers, retailers, and industry professionals worldwide.