The US government recently installed reciprocal tariffs on various countries. In response, the GIA has temporarily halted accepting goods at laboratories abroad that need to be shipped to the US for service.
As reported by Rapaport News, the GIA has also asked its customers outside the US to refrain from submitting items for grading, reports or other services directly to its US laboratories.
“These tariffs will apply to gems being shipped to a GIA laboratory in the US, even if only for laboratory services and not for sale,” a statement from the GIA reads.
“We recognise that these changing conditions may cause confusion. It is important that all clients and their shippers understand and comply with the US government requirements.
“GIA is working to understand the impact of the newly announced tariffs, what operational changes may be needed, and how we can continue to provide services in other GIA locations.”
A ‘temporary importation under bond’ allows consumers to ship goods to the US that are not for sale without incurring customs duty; however, industry representatives have questioned the validity of these bonds.
Customers who ship items to the GIA’s US laboratories are responsible for tariff charges incurred at this stage.
More reading
Changing faces: GIA begins search for the next president
Wordplay: Diamond jewellery retailer changes terminology
World Famous Diamonds: Sydney Fair prepares for 38 very special guests
GIA launches new jewellery report service
Aussie inventors: IGI introduces new light performance grading reports
GIA introduces printed versions of AGS Ideal Reports