How logistics is driving India's rise as a gem and jewellery export powerhouse

According to Zion Market Research, the global online jewellery market is expected to nearly triple by 2032, growing 189% from US$45.33 billion in 2023 to US$130.86 billion. This presents a major opportunity for Indian exporters to tap into a larger consumer base. India, renowned for its exceptional craftsmanship, has long been a global hub for gems and jewellery. The sector’s rapid expansion is further driven by innovations in logistics, government initiatives and strategic partnerships – fuelling India’s rise as a gem and jewellery export powerhouse.

The growth trajectory of gem and jewellery exports
India’s gem and jewellery exports have reached remarkable heights, contributing around $14 billion annually to the economy. As Sabyasachi Ray, Executive Director of the Gem and Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC), mentioned in an exclusive interview with Indian Transport & Logistics News (ITLN), “If you are looking at this kind of exports, which is happening right now from India, the numbers are huge. But those are happening in the B2B space. Now, in the next five years, with the opening of the B2C channel, we can at least reach around $1.4 to $2 billion of exports through e-commerce alone.”

This ambitious growth trajectory is fuelled by logistics innovations and the concerted efforts of stakeholders to overcome historical hurdles.

Addressing challenges through collaboration
The gem and jewellery sector has traditionally faced logistical challenges, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Complex customs procedures, inadequate infrastructure and a lack of integration between logistics providers and government systems have historically hindered the export process.

As Nitin Khandelwal, Regional Director of GJEPC Jaipur, highlighted in a keynote at IIJS Signature and IGJME Signature 2025, “Four years back, when we started this journey, we found that Indian manufacturers were unable to navigate the hurdles of e-commerce exports. Shipping was a major challenge. Returns were complicated. Customs procedures were cumbersome. But now, policies are in place, and the journey has become smoother.”

Strategic partnerships transforming logistics
Recent partnerships between organisations such as GJEPC and logistics players like DHL Express are paving the way for more streamlined exports. The signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on January 6, 2025, at IIJS Signature and IGJME Signature 2025 in Mumbai, between GJEPC and DHL Express marked a critical milestone in this journey.

Speaking at the MoU signing, R.S. Subramanian, Senior Vice President of South Asia, DHL Express, emphasised the potential of such collaborations: “Today, we are at an important milestone because we are enabling e-commerce. This has been possible through close work with the commerce ministry and customs departments. We are happy to now provide seamless, door-to-door logistics solutions for GJEPC members.”Through such partnerships, logistics providers are offering comprehensive solutions—from pickup and customs clearance to delivery in international markets—helping Indian exporters access over 200 countries.

Sandeep Juneja, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at DHL Express India, commented, "We are happy to support the growing gems and jewellery sector by partnering with GJEPC today. The collaboration will enable members to further their ambitions to grow their cross-border e-commerce partnerships globally and potentially reach over 220 countries and territories.”

According to DHL Express, the MoU intends to simplify the customs clearance process for jewellery shipments, reducing transit times, paperwork and costs compared to traditional cargo shipping methods. However, the service is currently available in Mumbai, and it will soon be available at major jewellery hubs in Surat, Jaipur, Delhi, and Bengaluru.

In a recent release, the logistics service provider mentioned, “Gems and jewellery shipments being exported cross-border through the courier mode, leveraging DHL Express’ TDI service, must be valued at INR 10 lakh (EUR 11,300) or below, addressing a critical segment of the market.”

Saurabh Wadhwa, Manager – Business Development at eBay, explained the benefits of eBay for gem and jewellery exporters of India at India International Jewellery Show 2025 in Mumbai.

On the other hand, before the MoU, Saurabh Wadhwa, Manager – Business Development at eBay, highlighted how eBay providing a platform to jewellery manufacturers in India to sell their products beyond borders, and highlighted the benefits of the platform like easy onboarding for new users, access to 190 markets globally and market insights for inventory planning and management.

Leveraging technology for seamless operations
Digital transformation is another key enabler. Logistics providers are deploying advanced digital tools to enhance transparency, reduce transit times, and simplify processes. For instance, customs integration through the ICEGATE system has streamlined export procedures. Dr. Sudhir Jakhere, Assistant Postmaster General, Maharashtra Circle, noted during a seminar in October 2024, “Our goal is to simplify exports and unlock growth opportunities. With digital integration, even remote clusters can now participate in global trade.”

Additionally, India Post has expanded its capabilities, connecting over 800 post offices to ICEGATE. This initiative ensures that even small artisans and exporters from remote areas can ship their products internationally.

Focus on cluster development
India’s gem and jewellery manufacturing and trading clusters are scattered across the country, from the intricate filigree work of Bengal to the vibrant gemstones of Jaipur. Recognising this, GJEPC has been instrumental in mapping 400 clusters and implementing targeted programs to enhance their competitiveness.

“We have started organising common fulfilment centres and upgrading business skills across 200 manufacturing clusters,” shared Ray in the interview. “This is helping small players get organised and access platforms like the International Jewellery Show (IIJS), where they can connect with retailers and wholesalers from across the country.”

Empowering SMEs and artisans
SMEs and individual artisans form the backbone of India’s gem and jewellery sector. However, they often lack the resources to navigate complex export procedures. Initiatives like the partnership with India Post and DHL aim to bridge this gap.

“You have a product; you book it for export. The rest of the things—customs clearance, booking of flights, delivery—are managed by logistics providers,” explained Ray. “This plug-and-play system enables even small players to reach global markets effortlessly.”

India Post: A game-changer for remote exports
India Post’s extensive network has emerged as a game-changer for exporters in remote locations. At a seminar hosted lst year by GJEPC and Bharat Diamond Bourse, participants learned about the benefits of India Post’s cost-effective services. Dr. Jakhere highlighted, “The streamlined process ensures that exporters can now ship products directly from even the most remote clusters.”

This initiative aligns with the government’s “One District, One Product” (ODOP) program, which aims to make every district an export hub. By linking post offices with customs systems, the initiative is unlocking new avenues for local artisans to reach international buyers, further highlighted by Ray during the recent interview.

Building infrastructure for a global future
Logistics infrastructure plays a pivotal role in ensuring the timely delivery of high-value goods like jewellery. DHL’s R.S. Subramanian elaborated on this during the MoU signing: “We run a fantastic network in India and globally, enabling shipments to reach their destination in the fastest possible time. This infrastructure helps reduce transit times, making it easier for exporters to serve international markets.”

Moreover, the development of logistics hubs and fulfilment centres ensures that exports are handled with precision and care, minimising risks associated with high-value shipments.

A sustainable growth path
As the sector embraces modern logistics, it also faces challenges like counterfeit products. GJEPC is working closely with the Consumer Affairs Ministry to address this issue through hallmarking and certification.

“With mandatory hallmarking for metals and certification for gemstones, we can mitigate the threat of counterfeits,” said Ray. These measures, combined with robust logistics solutions, are fostering trust and transparency in global markets.

Future prospects of India’s gem exports
India’s gem and jewellery exports are poised for exponential growth, driven by e-commerce and direct-to-consumer sales. Ray predicts that the sector’s B2C exports could reach $2 billion in the next five years, fuelled by logistical advancements and digital platforms.

However, the road ahead requires sustained collaboration between stakeholders. As Khandelwal pointed out, “The policies are in place. Now, the focus must be on execution and ensuring that every player, big or small, can leverage the opportunities presented by e-commerce and logistics.”

The evolution of logistics is undeniably fuelling India’s rise as a global gem and jewellery export powerhouse. By addressing historical challenges, leveraging technology, and fostering partnerships, the sector is opening doors to new markets and empowering players across the value chain. As logistics solutions continue to improve, India’s gem and jewellery exports are set to shine brighter on the global stage.