Jaipur: At the ‘Growing Opportunities from Free Trade Agreements – An Industry Perspective’ workshop held on 24 June in Jaipur, Mr. Sabyasachi Ray, Executive Director, GJEPC, delivered an impactful address on how Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) are poised to reshape the future of India’s gem and jewellery exports.

Organised by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) along with the Centre for WTO Studies, the workshop brought together key voices from trade and industry to explore strategic trade partnerships.

Mr. Ray noted the significant shift in India’s FTA approach post-2014, moving from developing markets to high-income, high-consumption economies like the UAE, Australia, and the UK. Citing the India-UAE CEPA, he noted exports nearly doubled post-agreement, from $2.4 billion to $4.8 billion.

He said the upcoming India–UK FTA could similarly boost exports to $1 billion. He stressed the need for smart FTA design—targeting tariff cuts on key lines, easing customs, and supporting MSMEs—to unlock India’s full export potential.