International News
US ends sub $800 import exemption wef Aug 29, intensifies cost pressures on diamond, jewellery trade
As of 29 August, the long-standing loophole that allowed goods worth under $800 to enter the United States duty-free has officially closed. Known as the de minimis exemption, this facility was widely used by exporters across industries—including the diamond and jewelry sector—to ship smaller parcels without attracting customs duties.
The end of this exemption comes at a particularly challenging time for the trade. The industry is already reeling under reciprocal tariffs of at least 10% on all US trading partners and a punitive 50% tariff on Indian imports, measures that have significantly disrupted supply chains and increased costs.
The removal of de minimis—Latin for “about minimal things”—signals a major shift in US trade policy, as all shipments, regardless of their value, will now attract tariffs and customs duties. The move was formalized in an executive order issued on 30 July, titled Suspending Duty-Free De Minimis Treatment for All Countries. While China and Hong Kong lost their exemption earlier on 2 May, the measure has now been extended to all countries without exception.
For the diamond and jewelry industry, which often relies on multiple small consignments to fulfill just-in-time retail orders, the impact is expected to be significant. Exporters will now face not only higher duties but also additional administrative and compliance costs.
In anticipation of the change, the Jewelers Vigilance Committee (JVC) has issued a set of guidelines urging businesses to prepare for the new trade environment:
- Review supply chains to identify goods previously imported under de minimis.
- Recalculate landed costs, incorporating duty rates into pricing models.
- Engage suppliers and customs brokers to ensure readiness for the new regime.
- Communicate transparently with customers about expected cost increases.
- Reconsider shipping strategies, such as consolidating orders or adjusting shipment sizes, to minimize administrative overheads.
Industry observers warn that the removal of de minimis could reshape the way international jewelry trade with the US is conducted, forcing companies to adopt more consolidated and cost-efficient shipment models. For Indian exporters, already under heavy tariff pressure, this marks yet another hurdle in maintaining competitiveness in the world’s largest jewelry consumer market.
International News
GJEPC Auckland Visit Targets Growth In India-NZ Jewellery Trade
The Opportunity In New Zealand Is Significant Relative To The Current Level Of Jewellery Trade. India’s Gem and Jewellery Exports To New Zealand Rose 50.56% To US$25.46 Million In FY2025-26, From US$16.91 Million In FY2024-25.
The GJEPC trade delegation’s Auckland programme has highlighted the scope for expanding India’s gem and jewellery exports to New Zealand as the two countries move towards implementing their recently concluded Free Trade Agreement (FTA).
The Auckland visit was part of GJEPC’s Australia and New Zealand trade delegation, held from 20-26 August 2026, with the delegation focused on connecting Indian manufacturers and exporters with buyers and industry stakeholders across the two markets.
The opportunity in New Zealand is significant relative to the current level of jewellery trade. India’s gem and jewellery exports to New Zealand rose 50.56% to US$25.46 million in FY2025-26, from US$16.91 million in FY2024-25.
The recently concluded India-New Zealand FTA is expected to create further opportunities for Indian exporters. New Zealand has committed to duty-free access for Indian exports across 100% of its tariff lines once the agreement enters into force.
On 26th August, Vijay Mangukiya, Convener – International Events, GJEPC and leader of the delegation, met Dr. Madan Mohan Sethi, Consul General of India in Auckland. Mangukiya has said the delegation was aimed at bringing Indian manufacturers and exporters closer to buyers and industry stakeholders in both Australia and New Zealand, with the objective of identifying new business opportunities and developing long-term partnerships.
The delegation’s Auckland market visits covered a broad cross-section of the local jewellery sector, including Michael Hill, Wallace Bishop, Hardy Brothers, Prouds, and Partridge Jewellers. The delegation also observed international luxury and contemporary jewellery brands including Van Cleef & Arpels, Roberto Coin, Messika and FOPE, reflecting the competitive environment in which Indian exporters would be seeking to establish or expand relationships.
India’s exports of individual jewellery categories to New Zealand also recorded strong growth in FY2025-26. Gold jewellery exports rose 84% to US$17.47 million, while silver jewellery exports doubled to US$0.91 million. Lab-grown diamond exports rose 2% to US$0.63 million, and imitation jewellery increased 13.16% to US$0.43 million. Cut and polished diamond exports were US$5.76 million.
The figures underline the growing contribution of finished jewellery to India’s New Zealand business. With the FTA expected to improve market access and the Auckland market showing demand across gold, diamonds, coloured stones, pearls and branded jewellery, GJEPC’s delegation is seeking to convert this existing growth into deeper commercial relationships.
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