Indian exporters want gems, jewellery trade with Pakistan

NEW DELHI: Indian gems and jewellery exporters have started pitching for opening of trade in the sector with Pakistan. Exporters, who see huge opportunity in Pakistan, urged Indian Commerce Ministry to discuss issue of allowing trade with Pakistan government.

At present, Pakistan follows a 'positive list' regime and permits import of only 1,963 items from India which does not include gems and jewellery. "We have requested Commerce Minister to talk to Pakistan government in this regard. Pakistan has great potential. The two countries can directly trade rather than routing it through Middle-East and Dubai," Indian Gems & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) Chairman Rajiv Jain said.

Jain, who was also part of business delegation led by Commerce Minister Anand Sharma to Pakistan last week, said several exporters participated in India Show at Lahore and received good response from Pakistani buyers. "Our exporters got lots of enquiries. Huge demand is there," he added. In India Show, 18 participants exhibited their gold items and jewellery.

In fiscal year 2010-11, bilateral trade with Pakistan stood at $2.7 billion, with trade balance heavily in favour of India, while indirect commerce through Gulf countries is manifold.

Copyright PPI (Pakistan Press International), 2012