Surat has overtaken Mumbai to become India’s largest hub for rough diamond imports, now handling more than 80 percent of inbound shipments. The shift marks a structural change in trade routing, supported by tax reforms and stronger customs infrastructure in the city. Long known as the world’s leading diamond cutting and polishing centre, Surat is increasingly positioning itself as a major trading hub as well.

Industry participants say the removal of earlier tax barriers and improvements in local customs processes encouraged companies to move import formalities closer to their manufacturing bases in Gujarat. Expanded customs facilities at the Surat Diamond Bourse have made it easier to transfer and clear shipments locally, reducing reliance on Mumbai for documentation and logistics.

Import data over the past decade shows a sharp reversal in trade flows. While Mumbai once led in rough diamond imports, Surat has surged ahead in recent years, with significantly higher import values. The city is also emerging as a centre for rough diamond auctions, with large volumes now displayed and traded locally, further strengthening its role as a full-fledged global trading hub.