BIS Raises Gold Hallmarking Fee to 75 Rupees

The Bureau of Indian Standards raised the gold hallmarking fee by 67 percent on September 14. The new charge is 75 rupees per article, up from the previous rate of 45 rupees. This change increases compliance costs for jewellers entering the festive and wedding season. The higher fee applies to every item, regardless of weight or value. This structure places a disproportionate burden on lightweight jewellery pieces.

Higher Fees Hit Lightweight Items

Elevated gold prices have shifted consumer preference toward lighter jewellery and exchanges. The flat fee structure makes the charge more significant for lower-value items. Small earrings, rings, and pendants now carry a larger relative cost. Amit Modak of Reva Diamonds noted that the 30-rupee increase becomes meaningful at scale. He suggested a lower fee slab for articles below a certain weight threshold.

Retailers Absorb or Pass On Costs

Some jewellers will pass the cost directly to customers without adding margin. Supriya Kataria of Kumari Fine Jewellery stated her company charges the notified fee at actuals. Bulk consignments help optimize the effective per-piece cost for these retailers. Darshan Chauhan of Sky Gold & Diamonds expects limited impact on operating costs. The additional charge represents a small proportion of the total purchase value for most items.

Industry Calls for Fee Review

Industry representatives argue the fee increase was not adequately consulted. Rajesh Rokde of the All India Gem and Jewellery Domestic Council said customers resist paying the charge. He noted that consumers already face high gold prices, making charges, and GST. The industry calls for a review of the rate. Gold prices stood at 157,860 rupees per 10 grams on Friday. This level is up nearly 17 percent since January 1. Jewellery demand fell 15 percent year-on-year to 75 tonnes in the June quarter. The World Gold Council reported that demand weakened due to high prices and import duties. GN auto markets/commodities: gold demand data reflects these broader market trends.