25-04-2025
Mumbai International Airport to launch hand-carriage jewellery exports on May 1
Mumbai International Airport will begin hand-carriage jewellery export operations on May 1 and the Gem and Jewellery Export Promotion Council has heralded the move as a significant step forward for India's gem and jewellery industry. The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs formalised the process through Circular No. 09/2025-Customs, issued on March 28, allowing the import and export of jewellery via personal carriage.
Ahead of the rollout, a successful mock drill was conducted on April 24 by the Bharat Diamond Bourse, BVC, Precious Cargo Customs Clearance Centre, Airport Customs, and GJEPC, the traders' body announced on its website. The exercise, overseen by Roopesh Sukumaran, additional commissioner of customs at PCCCC, involved the GJEPC's secretariat acting as an exporter in a simulated passenger scenario.
The GJEPC announced that its consistent engagement with stakeholders has played a key role in bringing this initiative to fruition. The Directorate General of Systems is expected to release an advisory shortly, after which Mumbai Customs will issue the final Standard Operating Procedure for hand carry exports.
This development is expected to support smaller exporters and new entrants, offering greater ease and flexibility in accessing global markets, according to the GJEPC. The GJEPC has also set up a dedicated office at the airport to assist members with the new process.
