💎 Export Gems and Jewellery from India to France: Complete Guide

Category: 🌍 International Shipping, E-Commerce
Author: SinghXpress

Jewellery is not just an accessory in France; it’s a cultural statement, a fashion symbol, and a mark of identity. For Indian exporters, this presents an incredible opportunity. The demand for Indian gems and jewellery in France continues to rise, fueled by India’s global reputation for diamonds, gemstones, and handcrafted ornaments. ✨

However, exporting jewellery is not simply about sending parcels abroad. It requires legal compliance, customs clearance, proper classification with HS codes, and accurate documentation. This guide covers everything you need to know about exporting gems and jewellery from India to France. 🛫

Why Export Gems and Jewellery to France? 🇫🇷

France offers a lucrative market for Indian exporters due to several factors:

• Luxury Capital of the World: 🏰 Paris is home to top jewellery houses like Cartier, Boucheron, and Van Cleef & Arpels. French consumers value premium quality and design.

• Diverse Demand: From luxury brands to affordable silver jewellery and artisanal designs, the French market has wide-ranging tastes. 💍

• High Imports: France imports billions in gems and jewellery annually, with India as a top supplier. 💰

• EU Trade Benefits: Standardized EU customs procedures simplify compliance and documentation. ✅

Bottom line: French buyers reward exporters who deliver quality products on time while following regulations. 📦

HS Codes for Jewellery Exports from India to France 📝

Accurate HS codes are essential for customs clearance. Common codes include:

• 7102: Diamonds (worked or unworked, not mounted) 💎

• 7103: Precious and semi-precious stones (other than diamonds) 💎

• 7106: Silver (including plated items) ⚪

• 7108: Gold (unwrought or semi-manufactured) 🟡

• 7113: Jewellery articles of precious or plated metals 💍

• 7114: Goldsmiths’ or silversmiths’ wares ✨

• 7116: Articles of precious or semi-precious stones 🪩

Always verify HS codes with your freight forwarder or customs broker to avoid delays or fines. ⛔

Step-by-Step Export Procedure: India to France 🚀

1️⃣ Register Before Exporting

• Obtain Import Export Code (IEC) from DGFT.

• Register with the Gem and Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC).

2️⃣ Classify Products Correctly

Assign the proper HS codes to all products to ensure accurate duty and tax calculation. 📊

3️⃣ Prepare Required Documents 📑

• Commercial Invoice: Trade and valuation purposes

• Packing List: Contents, weight, and packaging details

• Certificate of Origin: Confirms the product was made in India 🇮🇳

• Bill of Lading / Airway Bill: Proof of shipment

• Export Declaration Form (EDF): Mandatory for Indian Customs

• Insurance Certificate: Insures high-value jewellery shipments 🛡️

4️⃣ Indian Customs Clearance

• File shipping bills electronically via ICEGATE. 💻

• Declare HS codes, value, and buyer details.

• Most gems and jewellery exports are duty-free. 🚫💰

5️⃣ Freight and Shipping ✈️

• Air freight is preferred for faster and safer delivery.

• Use tamper-proof packaging with barcodes and seals. 📦

6️⃣ French Customs Clearance

• Submit all documents: invoice, packing list, certificate of origin, and HS codes.

• Pay import VAT and applicable duties. 💶

7️⃣ Delivery to Buyer 🚚

Shipments are delivered via local carriers like UPS, FedEx, DPD, or local postal networks, depending on the country.

Cost Considerations 💸

Beyond product value, consider:

• Freight Costs: Air cargo is more expensive but secure ✈️

• Insurance Premiums: Typically 0.5–1% of invoice value 🛡️

• Customs Duties & VAT: Finished jewellery may attract 2–4% duties + 20% VAT

• Logistics & Handling Charges

Example: $50,000 shipment of jewellery under HS 7113 → 2.5–4% import duties + 20% VAT in France.

Challenges in Exporting Jewellery to France ⚠️

• High security risks: Gems are valuable and prone to theft 🕵️‍♂️

• Complex EU regulations: Hallmarking and metal standards ⚖️

• Currency fluctuations: INR-EUR changes affect profits 💱

• Strict quality standards: Misdeclared or fake products can be banned ❌

Tips for Successful Jewellery Exports 💡

• Double-check HS codes, invoices, and packing lists ✅

• Use GPS-enabled and secure logistics services 📦

• Partner with French distributors or attend trade shows like Bijorhca Paris 🛍️

• Consider eco-friendly and ethically sourced gems 🌱

FAQs ❓

1️⃣ Do I need an IEC to export gems and jewellery?
Yes, an IEC is mandatory for customs clearance in India.

2️⃣ Is a Certificate of Origin required?
Yes, it confirms the products are made in India and may provide preferential duty benefits.

3️⃣ Which shipping method is preferred?
Air freight is safest and fastest for high-value jewellery.

4️⃣ What customs duties apply?
Raw stones may be duty-free; finished jewellery usually attracts 2–4% duties + 20% VAT.

Final Thoughts 🌟

Exporting gems and jewellery from India to France is highly rewarding but requires compliance, secure shipping, and proper documentation. By following the steps above, Indian exporters can enter France’s luxury market confidently, deliver quality products, and build a sustainable business presence.