# Chirag Paswan Calls for ‘Made in India’ Jewellery to Become a Global Trusted Choice at IIJS Bharat Premiere 2026

Union Minister Shri Chirag Paswan inaugurated the Bombay Exhibition Centre (BEC) venue of IIJS Bharat Premiere 2026 in Mumbai on 6 August, calling on India’s gem and jewellery industry to strengthen Brand India through quality, craftsmanship, innovation and reliability.

## Government and Industry Leaders Gather at BEC

The 42nd edition of IIJS Bharat Premiere at BEC, NESCO, Goregaon, was inaugurated by Shri Chirag Paswan, Hon’ble Union Minister of Food Processing Industries, Government of India.

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., attended as Guests of Honour.

GJEPC was represented by Chairman Kirit Bhansali, Vice Chairman Shaunak Parikh and Executive Director Sabyasachi Ray.

Addressing the gathering, Paswan pointed to the participation of delegates from nearly 80 countries as an indication of growing international confidence in India’s gems and jewellery industry. He said government reforms aimed at improving ease of doing business, removing bottlenecks and creating new growth opportunities would support the sector’s development as India works towards the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.

He also urged the industry to maintain high standards of quality and craftsmanship so that “Made in India” jewellery continues to earn the trust of consumers worldwide.

## GJEPC Targets US$100 Billion in Exports by 2047

GJEPC Chairman Kirit Bhansali said India had moved beyond its position as a global manufacturing hub and was increasingly taking a leadership role in the international gems and jewellery sector.

He cited recent Free Trade Agreements, India’s chairmanship of the Kimberley Process in 2026, and Indian representation in international diamond organisations, including the presidency of the World Federation of Diamond Bourses and the vice presidency of the World Diamond Council.

Bhansali also pointed to India’s expanding global retail presence and reiterated GJEPC’s target of achieving US$100 billion in gem and jewellery exports by 2047, supported by infrastructure, policy reforms and skills development.

## De Beers Highlights India’s Natural Diamond Market

Paul Rowley of De Beers Group described India as a trusted partner and an increasingly important contributor to the future of the natural diamond sector.

He said India continues to be the fastest-growing natural diamond market despite global challenges, adding that De Beers remains committed to supporting the country’s long-term development through collaboration, skills development and initiatives aimed at strengthening consumer demand.

## Focus on Indian Jewellery Brands

K. P. Abdul Salam of Malabar Group said Indian jewellery companies had evolved from primarily manufacturing for international brands to developing Indian brands with global recognition.

He highlighted IIJS Bharat Premiere as a platform connecting Indian manufacturers with international buyers while showcasing capabilities in quality, innovation, sustainability and design.

## Technology Reshaping Jewellery Retail

Lamon Rutten highlighted the increasing role of technology in jewellery retail, saying digital ecosystems can enable retailers to expand inventory, reach customers across India and access new financial opportunities without increasing working capital.

He said the future jeweller would continue to serve as a trusted craftsman and advisor while also operating as a national retailer and financial gateway.

## IIJS Bharat Premiere Marks 25 Years

IIJS Bharat Premiere 2026 spans more than 135,000 square metres across two venues, with over 2,100 exhibitors occupying 3,600 stalls. The organisers expect more than 50,000 visitors, including more than 2,700 international buyers from over 80 countries.

The exhibition is being held at the Jio World Convention Centre (JWCC), BKC, from 5 to 9 August, and at the Bombay Exhibition Centre from 6 to 10 August. The 2026 edition marks 25 years of IIJS as India’s premier B2B gem and jewellery exhibition.

Running concurrently at BEC from 6 to 10 August, the India Gem & Jewellery Machinery Expo (IGJME) focuses on advanced manufacturing technology.

The programme also includes The Select Club, 20 Under 40, JewelStart Demo Day and Innov8 Talks, covering couture jewellery, emerging industry leaders, jewellery technology startups, diamonds, AI, technology, precious metals and developments across the global gem and jewellery business.