India has imposed strict import curbs on gold, silver, and platinum jewellery, marking a significant shift in the country’s trade policy. Under the latest notification, all jewellery imports falling under CTH 7113 have been moved to the “Restricted” category, making government licences mandatory for most importers, while certain specified exemptions continue to apply.
Quick Summary
- India has shifted jewellery imports under CTH 7113 from “Free” to “Restricted”
- Import licences are now required for most categories
- Rules are effective immediately with no transitional relief
- Policy applies irrespective of prior contracts or shipments
- Exemptions exist under CEPA, EOUs, SEZs, and export schemes
- Move strengthens regulation of precious metal jewellery imports
- Likely to support domestic manufacturing and trade transparency
Government Tightens Control on Jewellery Imports Under CTH 7113 (Chapter 71)
In a major move impacting the gems and jewellery sector, the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, has imposed strict import curbs on all articles of jewellery and parts thereof of gold, silver, and platinum (including items clad with precious metal) with immediate effect via Notification No. 02/2026-27 dated April 1, 2026.The revised policy shifts multiple jewellery categories under CTH 7113 of the ITC (HS) 2022 from the “Free” to “Restricted” import category, making government licences mandatory for importers. This amendment revises the import classification and strengthens regulatory oversight on precious metal jewellery imports into India.
What Has Changed in the Import Policy?
Under the updated guidelines, the government has revised the import policy for all items under CTH 7113 (Articles of jewellery and parts thereof, of precious metal or of metal clad with precious metal), which includes: Gold jewellery (plain/unstudded and studded) Silver jewellery (plain/unstudded and studded) Platinum jewellery (plain/unstudded and studded) Jewellery studded with diamonds, pearls, and other precious or semi-precious stones Parts and components of the above All these categories have now been placed under the “Restricted” category, significantly tightening earlier norms where many of these items were freely importable.
Note:
Imitation jewellery (CTH 7117) and coins (CTH 7118) are not covered under this notification, as it specifically applies to items classified under CTH 7113.
Immediate Implementation With No Transitional Relief
The DGFT has clarified that the new rules are effective immediately, and importantly: No benefit of transitional provisions will be allowed. The rules apply irrespective of prior commitments, including signed contracts, advance payments, irrevocable letters of credit, or goods already shipped. This means importers must comply with the new licensing requirement without any exceptions for past transactions.
Why the Government Took This Step
While the official notification does not explicitly state the reason for this policy change, industry insights and market observations suggest that the move is aimed at preventing misuse of trade agreements, especially the India-ASEAN Free Trade Agreement. According to industry sources: Some traders were exploiting duty differentials under FTAs. Imports were being routed as unstudded or low-value jewellery to bypass tariffs. Certain trade routes were reportedly used to circumvent duties. This led to unfair trade advantages and increased imports, prompting stricter regulatory measures.
Background: Gradual Tightening of Jewellery Imports
This is not the first regulatory step in this direction. The government has been progressively tightening import norms for precious metal jewellery: September 2025: Curbs imposed on specific categories of silver jewellery (Notification No. 34/2025-26). November 2025: Restrictions introduced on unstudded gold, silver, and certain platinum jewellery categories (Notification No. 48/2025-26, valid till April 30, 2026). March 2026: Temporary restrictions on specific diamond-studded and stone-studded silver jewellery (HS codes 71131144 and 71131145 till June 30, 2026). With the latest notification (No. 02/2026-27), items under CTH 7113 are now broadly regulated under the Restricted category with immediate effect.
Key Exceptions to the New Rules
Despite the stricter policy, certain exemptions remain: Imports under the India-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) within specified tariff rate quotas (TRQ) for certain gold jewellery items are still allowed without licences. Units operating under Export Oriented Units (EOUs) and Special Economic Zones (SEZs) are exempt, provided the imported goods are not sold into the Domestic Tariff Area (DTA). Imports under the export schemes for gems and jewellery under Chapter 4 of the Foreign Trade Policy 2023 are also exempt from these restrictions.
Industry Reaction & Concerns
While the move is seen as necessary to ensure fair trade practices, industry stakeholders have raised concerns: Licensing procedures may increase compliance burden. Genuine importers could face operational delays. There is a need for simplified and faster approval processes. Experts suggest that ease of licensing will be crucial to ensure that legitimate businesses are not adversely affected.
Impact on India’s Jewellery Industry
The new import curbs are expected to: Strengthen domestic manufacturing and sourcing. Reduce unfair import practices. Improve regulatory oversight in the jewellery trade. Potentially increase costs for import-dependent players. This policy shift marks a significant step toward structured and controlled growth of India’s gems and jewellery sector.
Official DGFT Notification
Click here to Download the Official DGFT Notification (PDF)
FAQs
What is the new rule for jewellery imports in India?
Jewellery imports under CTH 7113 have been moved to the Restricted category, requiring licences for most imports.
When did the new import curbs come into effect?
The rules came into effect immediately from April 1, 2026, via Notification No. 02/2026-27.
Are all jewellery imports restricted?
Most imports under CTH 7113 are restricted, but exemptions exist under CEPA, EOUs, SEZs, and export schemes.
Will previous import contracts be honoured?
No, the policy applies irrespective of prior contracts, payments, or shipments.
Are there any exemptions to the new rules?
Yes, exemptions include imports under India-UAE CEPA (TRQ), EOUs, SEZs, and export schemes under FTP 2023.
Why has the government imposed these restrictions?
The official notification does not specify the reason, but industry insights suggest it is to strengthen regulation and address trade-related concerns.
Source: SVAR Media Network
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