The Indian gem & jewellery industry is on a turning point of its growth era. The 42nd International Indian Jewelry Show, IIJS Bharat Premiere kicked off in Mumbai, highlighting India’s emerging role in the international luxury and manufacturing scene amidst a backdrop of burgeoning trade ties with the world. The event, which marks 25 years of India’s leading B2B event, underscores the changes in the future landscape of Indian exports, driven by strategic trade deals, forward-thinking government initiatives, and technological investments.
Reflecting on the exhibition’s importance, GJEPC Chairman Shri Kirit Bhansali observed, “IIJS Bharat Premiere has transformed into a premier global B2B jewelry forum. This venue unites the international sector for procurement, synergy, trend exploration, and the cultivation of enduring commercial alliances. During its 25th anniversary, IIJS stands as a testament to global trust in India’s artisan skill, industrial prowess, creative advancement, and its ascending role in international commerce.”
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Expanding Horizons
With a series of historic Free Trade Agreements (FTAs), India’s jewellery exporters are now taking advantage of new opportunities. As important agreements like the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CETA) between India and the United Kingdom (UK) and India-Oman CEPA take effect from July 15 and June 1 respectively, Indian artisans and manufacturers are having early access to some of the most promising consumer markets in the world. The Indian exporters at IIJS Bharat Premiere are playing on an entirely new commercial playing field as more agreements with the European Union (EU) and New Zealand are coming to fruition.
A World-Class Platform
The IIJS Bharat Premiere 2026 edition is considered to be the second largest gem and jewellery B2B exhibition in the world, spread across a 135,000 square meter exhibition area in two prestigious locations of Mumbai. The exhibition is being held from August 5-9 at the Jio World Convention Centre (JWCC), BKC; and from August 6-10 at the Bombay Exhibition Centre (BEC), Goregaon. The trade show has attracted over 50,000 professional visitors, of which more than 2,700 are buyers from abroad from more than 80 countries, on more than 3,600 stalls and more than 2,100 exhibitors.
Technology and Modern Manufacturing
The India Gem & Jewellery Machinery Expo (IGJME) is also being held simultaneously at the Bombay Exhibition Centre. It highlights the sector’s move towards high tech, precision production. The 249 exhibitors occupy 348 stalls, presenting the newest automation, tools, and modern machinery. With this emphasis on cutting-edge engineering, Indian manufacturing companies stay competitive while delivering high-quality products to international standards.
Highlighting the expansive socio-economic and heritage-driven influence, Former Rajya Sabha Member Dr. Vijay Darda observed, “The domestic gem and jewellery sector transcends mere commerce; it serves as a mirror to our deep-seated traditions, artisanal finesse, and pioneering vision. Although our nation is already lauded as a premier industrial center, our future evolution lies in cultivating elite global labels. These labels should inspire confidence and prestige throughout the world.
Key Strategic Reforms
Industry leaders at the opening highlighted major policy shifts designed to elevate India from a manufacturing powerhouse into a global trading hub. The Taxation and Other Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2026 introduces a landmark 15-year tax exemption. The exemption applies to rough diamond sales through India’s Special Notified Zones (SNZs). This enables global mining firms to sell directly in India. It allows local manufacturers better access to raw materials at origin pricing.
Furthermore, improved frameworks for e-commerce exports and nationwide hand-carriage facilities are empowering artisans and small businesses to export directly to global buyers, while Maharashtra’s dedicated Gem & Jewellery Policy 2025 continues to build an ecosystem designed to attract investment, spur employment, and drive local manufacturing.
The Next 25 Years of Brand India
While the past quarter-century established India as a dominant global manufacturing hub for gems and diamonds, industry figures emphasize that the next phase, IIJS Bharat Premiere, must focus on brand creation.
Contemplating this significant landmark year, Shri Kirit Bhansali remarked, “If the last 25 years established India as a global manufacturing hub, the next 25 years must establish India as a global leader in the gem and jewellery business.” Underscoring the upcoming mission, he further noted, “These reforms have created new opportunities. Moreover, we must drive demand for Indian jewellery, create globally recognised brands, and strengthen Brand India across each major market.
Curated show initiatives, such as The Select Club for high couture, 20 Under 40 for young leaders, JewelStart Demo Day for tech startups, and Innov8 Talks, demonstrate a clear commitment to fostering home-grown design talent, ethical transparency, and AI-driven innovation.
