MUMBAI (Reuters) - India's gold imports in 2008 fell 14 percent to 660.2 tonnes as higher gold prices and volatility hurt demand, the World Gold Council said on Wednesday.
"The combination of gold's safe haven appeal and extreme uncertainty surrounding other asset classes should see consumers continue to take advantage of any dips in the price (in 2009)," the industry group said in its review.
On Wednesday, gold futures on the Multi Commodity Exchange scaled to a record high of 15,617 rupees per 10 grams on safe haven buying and a weak rupee.
The contract gained more than 28 percent in 2008 as deepening global financial turmoil spurred safe haven buying.
Source : REUTERS INDIA