The Government of India, through the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), Ministry of Commerce & Industry, has issued Notification No. 02/2026-27 dated April 01, 2026, introducing significant amendments to the import policy of jewellery and related items under Chapter 71 of ITC (HS) 2022.
The notification, published in the Gazette of India (Extraordinary), seeks to regulate imports of articles of jewellery falling under CTH 7113, including items made of precious metals such as gold, silver, and platinum, whether or not studded with pearls, diamonds, or other stones.
As per the notification, the Central Government, exercising powers under the Foreign Trade (Development & Regulation) Act, 1992 and the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) 2023, has revised the import policy conditions for several tariff lines under CTH 7113 with immediate effect.
A key highlight of the amendment is that multiple categories of jewellery items previously classified as “Free” for import have now been shifted to the “Restricted” category. This includes, among others, jewellery with filigree work, studded jewellery (pearls, diamonds, and other precious stones), and parts of jewellery. As reflected in the tables provided in pages 1 to 4 of the notification, numerous tariff lines such as 71131110, 71131142, 71131143, and various platinum jewellery categories have undergone this policy change.
The revised framework also clarifies that imports under valid India-UAE CEPA Tariff Rate Quota (TRQ) will continue to be permitted without import license, even where the general import category has been designated as “Restricted.” This exception applies specifically to certain gold jewellery categories, as indicated in the detailed table (notably entries under 71131911 onwards on pages 2 and 3).
Importantly, the notification explicitly states that the benefit of transitional arrangements shall not be applicable to the restrictions imposed. Consequently, the revised policy will apply irrespective of prior contracts, irrevocable letters of credit, advance payments, or shipment status.
However, the Government has provided targeted exemptions to support export-oriented sectors. Imports by 100% Export Oriented Units (EOUs) and units operating in Special Economic Zones (SEZs) will not be subject to these restrictions, provided the goods are not diverted into the Domestic Tariff Area (DTA). Additionally, imports under schemes for export of gems and jewellery under Chapter 4 of FTP 2023 will also remain exempt.
The notification underscores the Government’s intent to strengthen regulatory oversight on jewellery imports, safeguard domestic industry interests, and ensure alignment with trade policy objectives, while maintaining facilitation for export-linked activities.
The Notification can be accessed at: https://a2ztaxcorp.net/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Notification-No-02-English_0001.pdf
