Objective:The objective of this study was to understand the impact of allowing reverse job work to units in special economic zones (SEZs) on (a) export competitiveness and (b) units in domestic tariff area (DTA). The study examined India’s trade and competitiveness in gems and jewellery sector, analysed the costs and benefits of reverse job work policy, analysed the policies of other countries, and made recommendation to the government on “reverse job work” as India revises the SEZ policy.
Scope and Deliverables: The study is based on secondary data and policy analysis, a primary survey and meeting and stakeholders’ consultation with GJEPC members and non-members. It included a draft report and final report. After the pilot survey, the Department of Commerce, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India, agreed on the need for reverse job work and announced the revision of the SEZ regulation. Hence, the study was put on hold with activity completed till the draft report stage.
Activities: Some of the key activities included:
- Database creation, questionnaire design and completion of the pilot survey
- 10 focus group meetings and stakeholders’ consultations.
- Draft report based on the pilot survey was submitted and accepted by GJEPC and the project is closed.
Working paper based on the project is expected to be published by November 2022
