How is China revising taxes on diamond jewellery? | BNT Diamonds
Diamond market

What are China’s new import tariffs on my investment in diamond jewellery?

20 Jul 21
  • Why has China changed the import taxes on diamond jewellery?
  • Which concrete tariffs are applied starting from July 1st?
  • Which effect do the new tariffs have on my investment in diamond jewellery?

In a market as globally active as the diamond market, local changes can profoundly impact the entire system. Although it remains to be seen what exact effect the Chines tax change of diamond jewellery will have on the global market, it is the perfect moment to reflect on what the change could mean for your investment in diamond jewellery.

Why has China changed the import taxes on diamond jewellery?

Although most of the world considers an investment in diamond jewellery an investment in luxury goods China begs to differ. The country has lowered import taxes on no fewer than 18 jewellery categories, a 68% drop in taxes, since jewellery was reclassified as ‘daily consumer product’. International brick and mortar jewellery retailers such as Tiffany and Co might see a surge in their sales, provided they lower their prices in accordance with the lower tax tariffs.

Although the import tariffs on diamond jewellery will soon plummet, the taxes on polished loose diamond will be lower still. That might make it worthwhile to import the different materials separately and to assemble the diamond jewellery in China, rather than importing complete jewellery pieces.

Which concrete tariffs are applied starting from July 1st?

Gold and silver jewellery, either with or without diamonds, drop from a 20% tax bracket to an 8% one. Platinum and jewellery in other precious metals, again with or without diamonds, go from 35% to 10%, as do other wares in precious metal alloys and metal plated objects. The same goes for semi-precious and precious stones. Imitation jewellery of unlisted materials goes from 35% to 18%, while imitation jewellery of base metal drops from 17% to 8%.

Diamond jewels

Which effect do the new tariffs have on my investment in diamond jewellery?

Diamond jewellery prices will probably slightly decline in the Chinese market since the consumer will now be charged far less in taxes. However, those lower jewellery prices will likely not result in a decline in prices throughout the market since only the taxes and not the value of the used materials will decline. Diamond jewellery will therefore become less costly for the Chinese population in an attempt to boost local economy, but your investment in diamond jewellery will be as valuable as ever. Moreover, most polished diamonds and diamond jewellery being sold internationally are sold without tax, the amount of which is subsequently calculated upon entering the destination country.

Where can I find the perfect diamond jewellery to purchase as an investment? How can I pick something that suits my portfolio? Contact the diamond investment experts at BNT Diamonds for your ideal piece.

Fabienne Rauw
About Fabienne Rauw
BNT Diamonds Antwerp

Fabienne, manager of the German market is able to guide every client with finding the right jewel. She takes care of most of the German orders, but also takes other task on her plate. Thanks to her six years of experience at BNT Diamonds she acquainted well with the product and the marketing around it. Her degree in PR ensures that BNT Diamonds is well presented across all media channels. For anyone looking into a new investment opportunity, Fabienne is the perfect guide in this process. No question will be left unanswered, and she will help you every step of the way.

With this article, BNT Diamonds strives to inform you thoroughly about investing in diamonds. No investment can be guaranteed to be without risk or fully according to your expectations. That is why we recommend to research the risks and aspects of investing in diamond properly to ensure that you make the right choice for your portfolio.