IIJS Bharat Premiere Accelerates India’s Emergence as a Global Jewellery Hub
The Indian gem and jewellery industry is poised for significant growth, as evidenced by the launch of the 42nd International Indian Jewelry Show (IIJS Bharat Premiere) in Mumbai. This event, marking 25 years of India’s premier B2B exhibition, highlights the nation’s evolving role in the global luxury and manufacturing landscape. The IIJS Bharat Premiere underscores the transformative changes in Indian exports, driven by strategic trade agreements, innovative government policies, and technological advancements.
GJEPC Chairman Shri Kirit Bhansali emphasized the exhibition’s significance, stating that IIJS Bharat Premiere has evolved into a leading global B2B jewellery forum. He noted that the event fosters international collaboration for procurement, trend exploration, and the establishment of long-lasting commercial relationships. The 25th anniversary of IIJS serves as a testament to the global trust in India’s craftsmanship, industrial capabilities, and creative innovation.
Expanding Horizons
India’s jewellery exporters are capitalizing on new opportunities presented by a series of historic Free Trade Agreements (FTAs). Notable agreements, such as the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CETA) between India and the United Kingdom and the India-Oman CEPA, took effect on July 15 and June 1, respectively. These agreements provide Indian artisans and manufacturers with early access to some of the world’s most promising consumer markets. As additional agreements with the European Union and New Zealand come into play, Indian exporters at IIJS Bharat Premiere are navigating a new commercial landscape.
A World-Class Platform
The IIJS Bharat Premiere 2026 edition is recognized as the second-largest gem and jewellery B2B exhibition globally, occupying a 135,000 square meter exhibition space across two prestigious venues in Mumbai. The event runs from August 5-9 at the Jio World Convention Centre (JWCC) in BKC and from August 6-10 at the Bombay Exhibition Centre (BEC) in Goregaon. The trade show has attracted over 50,000 professional visitors, including more than 2,700 international buyers from over 80 countries, showcasing over 3,600 stalls and more than 2,100 exhibitors.
Technology and Modern Manufacturing
Simultaneously, the India Gem & Jewellery Machinery Expo (IGJME) is taking place at the Bombay Exhibition Centre, emphasizing the industry’s shift towards high-tech, precision manufacturing. With 249 exhibitors occupying 348 stalls, the expo showcases the latest automation technologies, tools, and machinery. This focus on advanced engineering enables Indian manufacturers to remain competitive while delivering products that meet international quality standards.
Dr. Vijay Darda, a former Rajya Sabha member, highlighted the socio-economic and heritage-driven impact of the domestic gem and jewellery sector. He remarked that the industry reflects India’s rich traditions, artisanal skills, and visionary outlook. While India is already recognized as a leading industrial hub, Dr. Darda stressed the importance of developing elite global brands that inspire confidence and prestige worldwide.
Key Strategic Reforms
Industry leaders at the IIJS Bharat Premiere opening discussed significant policy reforms aimed at transforming India from a manufacturing powerhouse into a global trading hub. The Taxation and Other Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2026, introduces a groundbreaking 15-year tax exemption for rough diamond sales through India’s Special Notified Zones (SNZs). This policy allows global mining companies to sell directly in India, providing local manufacturers with better access to raw materials at competitive prices.
Additionally, enhanced frameworks for e-commerce exports and nationwide hand-carriage facilities are empowering artisans and small businesses to export directly to global markets. Maharashtra’s dedicated Gem & Jewellery Policy 2025 is further designed to create an ecosystem that attracts investment, generates employment, and promotes local manufacturing.
The Next 25 Years of Brand India
As India celebrates a quarter-century of establishing itself as a dominant global manufacturing hub for gems and diamonds, industry figures stress the need for the next phase of IIJS Bharat Premiere to focus on brand development. Shri Kirit Bhansali remarked that while the past 25 years have solidified India’s position in manufacturing, the future must emphasize establishing India as a global leader in the gem and jewellery sector. He noted that recent reforms have opened new opportunities, and there is a pressing need to cultivate demand for Indian jewellery, create globally recognized brands, and strengthen Brand India in key markets.
The event features curated initiatives such as The Select Club for high couture, 20 Under 40 for emerging leaders, JewelStart Demo Day for technology startups, and Innov8 Talks. These initiatives reflect a commitment to nurturing local design talent, promoting ethical practices, and driving innovation through technology.
Source: timesofdubai.ae
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Published on 2026-08-08 15:58:00 • By the Editorial Desk
