India's gem and jewellery sector is preparing for a significant shift in trade dynamics as the India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) comes into force on 15 July 2026.
The agreement grants duty-free access to almost all eligible Indian exports entering the UK market, creating fresh opportunities for manufacturers, exporters, MSMEs and artisan-led businesses across the country. Industry stakeholders expect the move to improve pricing competitiveness and strengthen India's position in one of its most important international markets.
Product categories expected to benefit include diamond jewellery, coloured gemstone jewellery, silver jewellery and lab-grown diamond jewellery, all of which are likely to gain from reduced trade barriers and easier market access.
Industry estimates suggest that India's gem and jewellery exports to the UK could grow substantially over the coming years, with bilateral trade in the sector expected to reach new milestones as sourcing partnerships deepen between the two countries.
Ahead of the agreement's implementation, GJEPC organised the second edition of the India-UK Buyer-Seller Meet in London on 7 and 8 July 2026. The event brought together Indian manufacturers and UK buyers to initiate commercial discussions, explore emerging consumer trends and identify opportunities created by the new trade framework.
The platform connected Indian suppliers with retailers, wholesalers and independent jewellers from across the UK market, with participating companies showcasing products across key jewellery categories including diamond-studded, coloured gemstone, silver and lab-grown diamond jewellery.
The initiative also forms part of GJEPC's broader strategy to strengthen India's commercial presence in the UK through trade exhibitions, international buyer programmes and market development initiatives designed to create long-term business relationships.
India and the UK already share a strong trade relationship in gems and jewellery, and the implementation of CETA is expected to further accelerate growth by reducing costs, improving ease of business and encouraging greater collaboration between companies in both markets.
As the agreement takes effect, industry bodies are expected to continue supporting exporters through awareness programmes, buyer engagement initiatives and knowledge-sharing platforms aimed at helping businesses maximise the opportunities emerging from the new trade environment.
