India’s Best CEOs: How Rajesh Mehta built Rajesh Exports into a $25B powerhouse, refining 35% of the world’s gold—while keeping ethics and innovation at its core.
In the bustling markets of Bangalore in the early 1980s, few could have predicted that a young entrepreneur named Rajesh Mehta—armed with ambition, resilience, and a small family business—would one day reshape the global gold industry. Today, as the Executive Chairman of Rajesh Exports, he oversees one of the world’s largest gold processing and jewelry companies, a conglomerate that not only reflects India’s legacy in precious metals but also its modern business acumen.
From Modest Beginnings to Industry Giant
Born into a family of modest means, Rajesh Mehta’s foray into the gold business began in 1982 when he started trading in gold jewelry with his brother, Prashant Mehta. Their early days were humble—selling handmade ornaments from small workshops and transporting them personally to customers across Indian cities.
What set Mehta apart wasn’t just his work ethic, but his foresight. In a highly traditional and fragmented industry, he envisioned a streamlined, technology-driven enterprise that could operate on a global scale while maintaining the authenticity and craftsmanship of Indian jewelry.
In 1989, the brothers founded Rajesh Exports, aiming to professionalize and expand operations. From the outset, Mehta focused on end-to-end integration—a strategy that eventually allowed the company to control every stage of gold manufacturing, from refining to retail. Today, Rajesh Exports processes over 35% of the world’s gold, with operations in Switzerland, Dubai, and several Indian cities.
Innovation at the Heart of Gold
While gold remains an ancient trade, Mehta introduced a modern approach. He heavily invested in refining technology, design innovation, and logistics. The acquisition of Valcambi, the world’s largest gold refinery based in Switzerland, in 2015, marked a watershed moment—not just for Rajesh Exports but for India Inc.
With Valcambi in its fold, the company could now refine over 1,600 tons of gold annually, securing its place in global supply chains and increasing its operational efficiency.
“Our vision was always to create a zero-waste, fully integrated gold company. Every part of our business is connected—from sourcing to final sale. That’s where the real value is unlocked,” said Rajesh Mehta in a past industry interview.
Such integration not only ensured higher margins but also made Rajesh Exports more resilient to the volatility of global gold prices. It also empowered the company to offer quality assurance to clients in over 60 countries.
Ethical Business in a High-Stakes Industry
Gold is a commodity deeply linked to geopolitics, environmental concerns, and ethical sourcing. Mehta has often stressed the importance of sustainability in gold sourcing and refining, promoting practices that comply with international standards.
Under his leadership, Rajesh Exports has focused on minimizing environmental impact through advanced refining processes and responsible sourcing certifications. The company’s adherence to the OECD Due Diligence Guidance for Responsible Supply Chains reinforces its commitment to ethical practices—a rare stance in a sector often criticized for opacity.
“Success in gold isn’t just about shine and weight. It’s about trust. We’ve built a brand that customers rely on, because they know our products come with integrity,” Mehta noted during an international gold forum in Geneva.
Leading with Quiet Conviction
Despite his towering achievements, Rajesh Mehta remains an understated figure. Unlike flamboyant business leaders, Mehta prefers to operate away from the limelight, letting his business acumen speak through numbers and impact.
His strategic foresight has turned Rajesh Exports into a company valued at over $25 billion, listed on the BSE and NSE, and consistently ranking in the Fortune Global 500. Under his leadership, the company also ventured into retail with the Shubh Jewellers brand, gaining significant market share in southern India.
The Road Ahead
Even with his impressive track record, Mehta isn’t one to rest on past laurels. With growing global demand for gold—especially from Asian and Middle Eastern markets—Rajesh Exports is poised for further expansion. Plans include increasing refining capacity, deepening retail reach, and investing in digital technologies for jewelry design and e-commerce.
At the same time, Mehta is grooming a new generation of leadership within the organization, preparing the company for a future that respects legacy but embraces innovation.
As gold continues to be a symbol of wealth, tradition, and security, Rajesh Mehta has ensured that Rajesh Exports is more than just a business—it’s a beacon of what disciplined ambition and ethical leadership can accomplish.
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