Editor’s Note
**Editor’s Note:** This article examines how the India-EU Free Trade Agreement eliminates 2–4% import duties on Indian gem and jewellery exports, unlocking greater access to European markets, enhancing trade competitiveness, and supporting job growth in the sector.
India-EU FTA removes 2–4% import duty on Indian gem and jewellery exports, opening EU markets, boosting trade, improving competitiveness and supporting jobs.
SMEStreet Edit Desk
28 Jan 2026
13:32 IST
The Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) welcomes the elimination of import duties on Indian gem and jewellery products under the India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA). This removes 2-4% duties on precious jewellery, unleashing huge export potential with the 27-member EU bloc—home to the world’s elite buyers.
India’s gem and jewellery exports accounted for USD 30 billion in CY 2024. Bilateral trade with the EU reached USD 5.2 billion, with exports at USD 2.7 billion (8.92% of total) and imports at USD 2.5 billion. EU jewellery imports from India remain limited at USD 628 million, of which USD 573 million is precious jewellery and USD 55 million is fashion (imitation) jewellery—these currently attract 2-4% duties—leaving the market dominated by non-FTA competitors.
The India-EU FTA will supercharge market diversification for the gem and jewellery industry. This transformative pact aims to double bilateral trade to USD 10 billion (~Rs. 91,000 crore) within three years. Zero-duty access to the world’s largest consumer market empowers export hubs in Gujarat, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, and West Bengal to ramp up shipments of precious jewellery (plain and studded), silver, and imitation jewellery—capitalizing on India’s renowned design prowess. Especially with exports to the USA down by 44%, this timely pact will help Indian exporters salvage lost ground.
Zero-duty access opens doors across segments, leveraging India’s edge in lightweight/minimalist gold, machine-made, studded, silver, coloured gemstone, and fashion jewellery. This will boost exports, improve competitiveness, create jobs, and significantly improve bilateral trade in the long run.