New Delhi, Aug 8: GemsS and jewellery exporters of Delhi has complained that increased norms for examination of export consignments in the last few days by the Customs at Jhandewalan and in Noida Export Processing Zone (NEPZ) has caused unnecessary delay in shipments leading to loss of heavy export orders.The Customs appraisement centres at Jhandewalan and in NEPZ clears approximately 1,500 export consignments per month besides clearing a sizeable number of imports as well as re-import consignments.In a press release, the exporters said that despite tremendous increase in the export figures and limited number of jewellery appraisers, the day-to-day load of shipments varies because of seasonal and festival demands, price fluctuations of precious commodity, international exhibitions, expiry of LCs, export obligations and availability of flight schedules. Gems and jewellery sector is the major thrust area of exports identified by the government, contributing more than 20 per cent of total exports of the country and is one of the largest export commodity from India.
The exports from Delhi region has increased from Rs 146 crore during 1990-91 to Rs 1,400 crore in 1999-2000 showing a phenomenal ten-fold increase in the decade and the exporters are determined to achieve an export figure of Rs 2,500 crore by the year 2002 from Delhi region, the press release stated.
The export orders are secured against stiff global competition and involve heavy investment in precious metals and gems. Delay in shipment not only entails loss of orders from the buyers but also causes heavy financial strain to the exporters apart from loss of credibility. This may also put exporters who are working under the tight time schedule into the `default' category.
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