India’s gold demand in 2015 was marginally up by 3% and stood at 849 tonnes in 2015 compared to 828 tonnes in 2014. The demand for jewellery was up 5% at 654 tonnes (622 tonnes) while investment in gold was down 6% at 195 tonnes (207 tonnes), as per World Gold Council (WGC) report. In value terms, jewellery demand was at Rs 1.56 lakh crore - a rise of 1% while that of investment demand was down 9% at Rs 46,515 crore (Rs 51,382 crore).
In December quarter, gold demand was at 233 tonnes up 6% compared to same period last year, valued at Rs 54,690 crore (Rs 52,500 crore). Jewellery demand increased by similar percentage points to 173 tonnes. In value terms, jewellery demand was up 4% at Rs 40,595 crore. Imports were down 16% at 234 tonnes (279 tonnes).
Gold imports into the country in 2015 were at 897 tonnes against 891 tonnes in 2014, while dore imports were at 223 tonnes. Last year, gold recycling was down at 80.2 tonnes (92 tonnes) due to lower prices.