GJEPC launched its nationwide IIJS Bharat Retailers Connect initiative in Dhule, Maharashtra, on 27 September, bringing together more than 75 jewellery retailers, trade members and MSMEs from Dhule and neighbouring markets including Chalisgaon and Malegaon.
Supported by the Dhule Saraf Association, the programme is the first stop in a planned 20-plus-city outreach campaign aimed at strengthening retailer participation at the IIJS Bharat shows 2027, while helping businesses in Tier-2 and Tier-3 markets understand opportunities to access global trade.
Naheed Sunke, Assistant Director – National Events, GJEPC, outlined the opportunities available through IIJS Bharat, including B2B networking, sourcing and the benefits of advance visitor registration and association-led participation.
Mithilesh Pandey, Senior Director – Membership, GJEPC, focused on avenues for regional businesses to expand into international markets. He highlighted the potential for Dhule to develop as an export-oriented silver jewellery cluster under the Districts as Export Hubs (DEH) initiative, as well as opportunities under the India-UAE CEPA.
Pandey also highlighted IJEX Dubai as a platform for Indian manufacturers and retailers to connect with international buyers, alongside support available for e-commerce exports, MSME documentation and government schemes.
Vikram Rathod, President, Dhule Saraf Association, said the association would support the GJEPC in promoting these initiatives among local jewellers. The association also expressed interest in enrolling artisans under the Parichay Card scheme.
The programme generated strong interest in GJEPC initiatives, with spot registrations for IIJS Bharat Signature 2027 and enquiries about GJEPC membership and the Exporter Mentorship Programme (EMP).
Five Dhule-based companies also pledged to book space at India Jewellery Park, Mumbai, on Dussehra.
The IIJS Bharat Retailers Connect campaign continues with its next stop in Jalna on 28 September.