GJEPC Raises Key Concerns in High-Level Customs Meeting
GJEPC Highlights Trade Challenges to Customs Officials
GJEPC held a meeting with the Customs Department in Mumbai on 4th June to address pressing concerns faced by the gem and jewellery industry. Present at the meeting were senior Customs officials including Ms. Prachi Swaroop, Principal Chief Commissioner, Customs; Mr. Alok Jha, Principal Commissioner, Customs; Mr. Santosh Mishra, Commissioner, Customs; Mr. Roopesh Kumar, Additional Commissioner, Customs; and Mr. Harsh Jha, Joint Commissioner, Customs.
Industry representatives included Mr. Kirit Bhansali, Chairman, GJEPC; Mr. Anoop Mehta, Member – Diamond Panel, GJEPC & President, Bharat Diamond Bourse (BDB); and Mr. Mithlesh Pandey, Director – Membership, GJEPC.
The session focused on key operational bottlenecks affecting the sector. Among the major issues discussed were challenges in the hand carriage of gem and jewellery parcels , delays caused by the non-availability of panel members, and the need for smooth implementation of the Risk Management System RMS facility.
Participants also raised concerns over parcel clearances from key trading hubs such as Hong Kong and Dubai, and the increasing number of consignments being referred to the Special Intelligence and Investigation Branch (SIIB).
GJEPC emphasised the urgent need for streamlined procedures and proactive support from customs authorities to ensure hassle-free trade and timely clearances. The Customs department assured all stakeholders that the issues raised would be addressed on priority, with follow-up actions and reviews planned in the coming weeks.
