India and the UAE marked the first anniversary of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) with the launch of the India Jewellery Exposition Centre (IJEX) in Dubai. Established by the Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC), IJEX is a 365-day exhibition platform for MSME jewelers to showcase their products in the Middle East market. The Middle East accounts for 30% of India’s gem and jewelry exports, and IJEX will help MSME manufacturers benefit from the India-UAE CEPA and expand in the WANA region.
Officials from both countries gathered in Dubai on May 9, 2023, to celebrate the occasion. India-UAE trade increased by 16% to reach $84.5 billion in 2022-23, with India’s gem and jewelry exports growing by 16.54% to $5.77 billion. CEPA has facilitated cheaper gold for Indian manufacturers and has made Indian jewelry exports to the UAE 5% more affordable compared to competitors.
IJEX aims to bring together buyers and manufacturers from the Middle East, North Africa, CIS countries, and beyond. The year-round B2B initiative offers GJEPC members a chance to display their products and secure orders from overseas buyers, ultimately increasing exports.PFA Press Release: Commemorating the 1st year of India-UAE CEPA, GJEPC launches first-of-its-kind India Jewellery Exposition Centre (IJEX) in Dubai
Photo Caption:
Photo 1: (From Left): H.E. Sunjay Sudhir, (Ambassador of India to UAE); Rajesh Kumar Singh (Secretary, DPIIT, Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Government of India); H.E. Juma Al Kait (Assistant Undersecretary – Foreign Trade Affairs at Ministry of Economy, UAE)
Photo 2: (From Left): Mr. Sanjiv, (Joint Secretary, DPIIT, Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Government of India); Mr. Kirit Bhansali (Vice Chairman, GJEPC); H.E. Juma Al Kait (Assistant Undersecretary – Foreign Trade Affairs at Ministry of Economy, UAE); Mr. Rajesh Kumar Singh (Secretary, DPIIT, Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Government of India); H.E. Sunjay Sudhir, (Ambassador of India to UAE); and Dr. Srikar K. Reddy (Joint Secretary, Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Government of India).
