Chirag Paswan Inaugurates IIJS Premiere 2026 Phase II; Calls for Making ‘Made in India’ the Global Benchmark for Quality Jewellery

Mumbai : India’s gem and jewellery industry received a fresh boost on 6 August 2026 as Union Minister for Food Processing Industries, Chirag Paswan, inaugurated the second phase of IIJS Premiere 2026 at the Bombay Exhibition Centre (NESCO), Goregaon, Mumbai. Widely regarded as one of the world’s largest B2B gem and jewellery exhibitions, the event has brought together leading manufacturers, exporters, retailers and buyers from across the globe.

The inaugural ceremony was attended by Kirit Bhansali, Chairman of the Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC), K.P. Abdul Salam, Vice Chairman of Malabar Group, Paul Rowley, Executive Vice President of De Beers Group, Leman Steyl, Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer of Gold Metaverse, along with senior industry leaders and international delegates.

Addressing the gathering, Chirag Paswan said India’s gem and jewellery industry is not only a major contributor to exports but also a symbol of the country’s craftsmanship and entrepreneurial strength. He urged jewellers to maintain the highest standards of quality, purity and ethical business practices, stating that even small compromises can affect India’s reputation in global markets.

“Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of ‘Make in India’ is not limited to manufacturing in India. Our goal should be to make ‘Made in India’ synonymous with trust, quality and excellence. When people anywhere in the world look for the finest products, the first name that should come to their minds is India.”

Paswan further said that every stakeholder in the industry has a responsibility to protect and strengthen the country’s image by ensuring transparency and authenticity in business.

“The strength of Indian jewellery lies in its craftsmanship, purity and credibility. If we remain committed to these values, India will emerge as the world’s most trusted destination for gems and jewellery. Our collective efforts should ensure that every product carrying the ‘Made in India’ label reflects unmatched quality.”

He also appreciated the industry’s contribution towards employment generation, exports and economic growth, adding that the government will continue to support initiatives that enhance India’s competitiveness in the global jewellery market.

This year’s edition of IIJS Premiere has attracted trade visitors and buyers from nearly 80 countries, including the United States, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Belgium, the United Kingdom, Germany, Italy, France, Singapore, Thailand, Hong Kong, Japan, Australia and Canada. The exhibition features an extensive range of gold, diamond, coloured gemstone, platinum, silver and contemporary jewellery collections, with business meetings expected to generate significant export opportunities over the coming days.

The show has witnessed strong participation from India’s leading jewellery manufacturing centres, including Jaipur, Surat, Mumbai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru and Rajkot. Jaipur-based exhibitors, known globally for their expertise in polki, jadau, meenakari, coloured gemstones and fine handcrafted jewellery, have drawn considerable interest from international buyers.

Speaking on the occasion, GJEPC Chairman Kirit Bhansali said IIJS Premiere has become the most influential global sourcing platform for India’s gem and jewellery industry and continues to strengthen the country’s position in international markets.

“The overwhelming participation of buyers from across the world reflects growing confidence in Indian manufacturing, innovation and craftsmanship. IIJS Premiere is creating new business opportunities for exporters while showcasing the extraordinary capabilities of India’s jewellery sector.”

Bhansali added that GJEPC remains committed to working closely with the Government of India to expand exports, open new international markets and promote India as the world’s preferred sourcing destination for gems and jewellery.

“Our vision is to position India not only as the largest jewellery manufacturing hub but also as the most trusted global partner for quality, design and innovation. IIJS Premiere is an important step towards achieving that goal.”

With robust international participation and strong business sentiment, IIJS Premiere 2026 is expected to generate substantial export orders, strengthen global partnerships and further reinforce India’s position as one of the world’s leading gem and jewellery manufacturing and sourcing destinations.