GJEPC Webinar Sheds Light on Duty-Free Gold and Silver Supply for Exporters
The Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) hosted a webinar titled “Supply of Duty-Free Precious Metals to Exporters” on 31st October 2025, drawing participation from nearly 150 industry stakeholders. The session aimed to clarify procedures, address challenges, and discuss policy mechanisms related to sourcing duty-free gold and silver.
The webinar featured Mr. Nirakar Chand, CEO – Precious Metals, Diamond India Limited (DIL), as the keynote speaker, and was moderated by Mr. Sabyasachi Ray, Executive Director, GJEPC. Other distinguished attendees included Mr. Tariq Thomas, Director, Department of Commerce (DoC); Ms. Tuhina Das, Deputy Director, DoC; and Mr. K.K. Duggal, Senior Director – Policy, GJEPC.
Mr. Ray elaborated on the various Foreign Trade Policy schemes—such as Replenishment, Outright Purchase, and Gold Metal Loans—through which exporters can procure duty-free precious metals. He highlighted DIL’s role as a DGFT-notified nominated agency that supplies duty-free gold and silver to more than 1,200 SME exporters across major bullion hubs. He also clarified that under the replenishment scheme, exporters can replace duty-paid gold with an equivalent quantity of duty-free gold post-export, at prevailing market rates.
Appreciating GJEPC’s initiative to educate smaller exporters, Mr. Tariq Thomas reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to supporting the export sector. He urged exporters to fully utilise the existing frameworks and duty structures, and to channel imports of gold and silver through nominated agencies.
The discussion also touched upon operational hurdles faced by MSME exporters, including limited access due to high minimum order requirements, difficulties in securing bank guarantees, and delays in KYC and margin refunds.
Addressing these concerns, Mr. Chand assured participants that DIL provides a simplified online KYC process and small-denomination gold supplies to help MSMEs. He further emphasised that all duty-free gold imports must comply strictly with FTP and HBP regulations, with exports to be completed within 90 days of import.
Mr. K.K. Duggal discussed key policy and procedural challenges, especially those related to the advance authorisation process for silver and platinum, and promised to follow up with DGFT on unresolved matters. He also clarified valuation norms for silver exports and reiterated GJEPC’s ongoing efforts to streamline trade processes for small exporters.
The event concluded with an engaging Q&A session that addressed queries on gold pricing, export documentation, replenishment timelines, and TRQ applicability. Participants were encouraged to connect with GJEPC’s regional offices or DIL for additional support on scheme implementation and compliance.