Import of rough diamonds into India dipped by 20 percent and amounted to Rs.2978 crores in May 2009, while in the same month last year the country had imported rough diamonds worth Rs.3714 crores. The import of cut & polished diamonds in the said month was worth Rs 2234.94 crores, showing a decrease of 11 percent over cut and polished diamond imports during May 2008 when it amounted to Rs.2012 crores.

Import of gold bars increased and amounted to Rs.1729 crores during the month, while in May 2008, the country had imported gold bars worth Rs.1404 crores.