Indian jewellery exporters are accelerating production and bringing forward US-bound shipments as they seek to complete holiday-season orders before a tariff-related deadline expected in October.
According to media reports, exporters in Mumbai’s SEEPZ and Surat are extending working hours to complete and dispatch orders ahead of the anticipated 16 October cut-off. Around 140 SEEPZ units have reportedly increased working hours, with approximately 80,000 workers placed on overtime, according to Adil Kotwal, chairman of the SEEPZ Gems and Jewellery Manufacturers Association.
The urgency follows the US Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act, signed by President Donald Trump on 18 September, which gives Washington powers to impose tariffs of up to 100% in certain circumstances. The uncertainty is prompting exporters to reassess shipment schedules, contracts and inventory plans.
Kirit Bhansali, Vice Chairman, GJEPC, said the US remains strategically critical to India’s gem and jewellery industry. India exported US$9.24 billion in gems and jewellery to the US in FY2024-25, accounting for nearly a third of total exports. Exports subsequently declined 44.92% to US$5.09 billion in FY2025-26, highlighting the sector’s sensitivity to tariff uncertainty.
“If additional tariffs are imposed, the principal concern would be a further erosion of India’s price competitiveness in the US market,” Bhansali said, adding that the eventual impact would depend on the final tariff rate, product coverage and duration of the measure.
It was reported that some exporters are seeking to move confirmed orders earlier, while others are examining US-based inventory and fulfilment arrangements. Companies are also reviewing contracts to determine how any additional duties would be shared across the supply chain.
Bhansali said the additional cost could be distributed between exporters, importers, retailers and consumers through a combination of pricing and margins, while higher landed costs could affect demand in price-sensitive segments.
He also pointed to market diversification as an important response to trade uncertainty. Following the India-UAE CEPA, gem and jewellery exports to the UAE rose from US$5.77 billion in 2022-23 to US$8.69 billion in 2025-26, while exports to Australia increased from US$299.79 million to US$374.33 million following the India-Australia ECTA. GJEPC is also pursuing trade opportunities across Europe, Central Asia, Australia and New Zealand and participating in 32 international jewellery exhibitions.
Bhansali said the industry is looking to the early conclusion of the India-US Bilateral Trade Agreement, which could provide greater certainty and predictability for exporters. He also noted that the proposed additional 100% tariff has not been implemented and that its eventual impact will depend on the final decision and product coverage.