Ahmedabad Customs has issued a comprehensive Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) governing the import and export of gems and jewellery through personal carriage at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, Ahmedabad , providing exporters with a clear framework to facilitate faster and more efficient cross-border shipments.
The new framework, notified through Public Notice No. 12/2026 dated 27 July 2026, establishes a transparent and uniform procedure for exporters, importers, Customs officials and authorised passengers using the personal carriage route. The initiative aims to facilitate legitimate trade, reduce transaction time, improve ease of doing business, and ensure effective Customs control and risk management.
The SOP follows sustained efforts by GJEPC, with Jayanti Savaliya, Regional Chairman – Gujarat, playing a key role in engaging with the authorities to establish a clear operational framework for the personal carriage of gems and jewellery. The move is expected to significantly boost exports from Gujarat.
Ahmedabad airport was notified under the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) and Handbook of Procedures (HBP) for handling gems and jewellery through personal carriage.
Under the new procedure, exporters must electronically file Shipping Bills through ICEGATE at least 24 hours before departure, while importers are required to file Bills of Entry before the passenger’s arrival, clearly indicating “Personal Carriage”. The SOP also specifies documentation requirements, examination procedures, temporary detention protocols, Customs sealing, and the responsibilities of exporters, importers, authorised passengers and Customs officers.
To improve efficiency, the notice states that Customs will endeavour to provide same-day clearance for import and export consignments when the required documentation and detention receipts are presented before noon.
The facility is available to eligible importers, exporters, manufacturers, merchant exporters, Export Oriented Units (EOUs), Special Economic Zones (SEZs), nominated agencies and other entities permitted under the FTP and HBP. It covers the import, export and re-import of eligible gems and jewellery consignments through personal carriage via Ahmedabad airport.