The opening at BEC placed India’s expanding jewellery ambitions in sharp focus, with government and industry leaders pointing to the policy shifts, global partnerships and business opportunities shaping the sector’s next phase.
The ceremonial opening of the Bombay Exhibition Centre (BEC) venue of IIJS Bharat Premiere 2026 featured addresses from government leaders and global industry executives on the forces driving India’s growing influence in the international gems and jewellery market. Held on 6th August, the second day of the show, the ceremony reflected the sector’s expanding global reach, from international governance and trade agreements to technology, branding and new business opportunities.
The ceremony was attended by Shri Chirag Paswan, Hon’ble Union Minister of Food Processing Industries, Government of India, as Chief Guest. Guests of Honour included Paul Rowley, Executive Vice President, Diamond Trading, De Beers Group; K.P. Abdul Salam, Vice Chairman, Malabar Group; and Lamon Rutten, Managing Director & CEO, India Gold Metaverse Pvt. Ltd. Representing GJEPC were Kirit Bhansali, Chairman; Shaunak Parikh, Vice Chairman; and Sabyasachi Ray, Executive Director.
Opening the ceremony, Kirit Bhansali, Chairman, GJEPC, said, “India’s rise in the global gems and jewellery industry is increasingly defined by its growing influence in shaping the industry’s future. From assuming the Chairship of the KP to taking leadership roles in the WDC and WFDB, India is now at the centre of international diamond governance. Our recent FTAs and expanding global footprint of Indian brands are creating unprecedented opportunities. As we work towards our vision of US$100 billion in gem and jewellery exports by 2047, IIJS Bharat Premiere reflects the confidence, innovation and global ambition that define the new India.”
Addressing the gathering, Shri Chirag Paswan, Hon’ble Union Minister of Food Processing Industries, Government of India, said: “The participation of delegates from nearly 80 countries at IIJS Bharat Premiere reflects the growing global confidence in India’s gems and jewellery industry. Under the leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the Government is committed to introducing reforms that strengthen ease of doing business, remove bottlenecks and create new opportunities for growth. As India moves towards the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, the jewellery sector will play a vital role. I urge the industry to uphold the highest standards of quality and craftsmanship so that ‘Made in India’ continues to earn the trust of consumers worldwide and strengthens Brand India’s global reputation.”
K. P. Abdul Salam, Vice Chairman, Malabar Group, added, “This is the moment for Indian jewellery. We have evolved from manufacturing for international brands to building Indian brands that are respected across the world. Platforms like IIJS Bharat Premiere connect our manufacturers with global buyers while showcasing India’s strengths in quality, innovation, sustainability and design. By strengthening trust, investing in branding and working together, we can take the industry to its next US$100 billion milestone.”
Highlighting technology’s growing role in jewellery retail, Lamon Rutten, Managing Director & CEO, India Gold Metaverse Pvt. Ltd., said, “By connecting retailers through digital ecosystems, jewellers can expand inventory, reach customers nationwide and unlock new financial opportunities without increasing working capital. The jeweller of the future will remain a trusted craftsman and advisor while becoming a national retailer, a financial gateway and a creator of wealth for the community.”
As IIJS Bharat Premiere 2026 continues, the BEC ceremonial opening set an optimistic tone for the days ahead.