Set-up in 1966, the GJEPC has over the years effectively moulded the scattered efforts of individual exporters to make the gem and jewellery sector a powerful engine driving India's export-led growth. This apex body of the gem & jewellery industry has played a significant role in the evolution of the Indian gem and jewellery industry to its present stature. GJEPC is continuously working towards creating a pool of artisans and designers trained to international standards so as to consolidate the Indian jewellery industry and establish it as a prominent global player in the jewellery segment.
With strength of 6,500 members' spread all over the country, the Council is primarily involved in introducing the Indian gem & jewellery products to the international market and promotes their exports. To achieve this, the Council provides market information to its members regarding foreign trade inquiries, trade and tariff regulations, rates of import duties, and information about jewellery fairs and exhibitions.
The role of GJEPC can be broadly classified under the following categories:
I. Trade Facilitator
The Council undertakes direct promotional activities like organising joint participation in international jewellery shows, sending and hosting trade delegations, and sustained image building exercises through advertisements abroad, publications and audio-visuals.
GJEPC also invites countries to explore areas of co-operation in supply of rough diamonds and rough colored stones as well as offers co-operation in jewellery manufacturing. The Council regularly communicates with Indian Embassies, trade bodies and associations in various countries. And finally, GJEPC also organizes seminars, buyer-seller meets, symposiums.
II. Advisory Role
A crucial area of activity of the Council has also been aiding better interaction and understanding between the trade and the government. The Council takes up relevant issues with government and agencies connected with exports and submit documents for consideration and inclusion in the Exim Policy. The Council also grants membership, registration certificates and performs other roles as per the Exim Policy.
III. Nodal Agency for Kimberley Process Certification Scheme
GJEPC works closely with the Government of India and the trade to implement and oversee the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme. To that effect, the Council has been appointed as the Nodal Agency in India under the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme.
IV. Training and Research
The Gems & Jewellery Export Promotion Council runs a number of institutes that provide training in all aspects of
manufacture and design in Mumbai, Delhi, Surat and Jaipur. These training programs are being conducted to ensure that the Indian industry achieves the highest levels of technical excellence.
V. Varied Interests
The Council also publishes a number of brochures, statistical booklets, trade directories and a bi-monthly magazine
Solitaire International, which is distributed internationally as well as to its members. Finally, the Council has also developed its own promotional audiovisual film - 'India - Your First Choice', which is dubbed in various international languages as well as screened at various trade shows.
