Finance Ministry probes banks on gold metal loans, signaling fresh import curbs

Centre has sought detailed data from bullion-importing banks on gold metal loans since 2023, hinting at tighter controls. India imported 721 tonnes ($71.9bn) in FY24, up 24%. Industry is pitching dore-refined bars, exports and cash-purchase limits to cushion jewellers from a duty squeeze.

— Source publishedTue, 9 Jun, 2026, 11:56 IST·First seen Tue, 9 Jun, 2026, 12:14 IST·Source Times of India · Business

What happened

Ministry of Finance · Finance Ministry has asked bullion-importing banks for detailed data on gold metal loans since 2023, signaling possible new curbs on gold

Key facts

  • 721 tonnes
  • $71.9 billion
  • 24%
  • 15% import duty

Why this matters

Tighter bullion controls could accelerate vertical integration plays into dore refining and create acquisition windows among smaller jewellers caught short on financing alternatives.