Botswana to serve as center for diamond certification
Botswana has been included as a second verification center for rough diamonds intended for export to Group of Seven (G7) nations. This marks a significant shift in global diamond supply chain dynamics.
The country’s President President Duma Boko made the announcement and said the move aims to address the disruptions caused by the earlier requirement to route all such diamonds through Belgium, which created bottlenecks and additional costs.
The G7’s initial proposal to process diamonds exclusively in Antwerp, Belgium, was part of efforts to prevent Russian diamonds from entering their markets. African producers, led by Botswana, raised concerns about delays, increased costs, and lack of inclusivity.
Diamond industry in Botswana
Botswana is the world’s second-largest diamond producer and has a strong track record in verification and certification under the Kimberley Process. The new verification center in Botswana will enhance flexibility and efficiency in the global diamond trade. It is seen as a step toward diversifying certification points, which could eventually include other African producers like Namibia and Angola.
Botswana’s Minister of Minerals, Bogolo Kenewendo, emphasized the importance of recognizing African producers for their readiness and contributions to ethical diamond trade practices. Experts like Hans Merket view this as a move towards a more balanced and inclusive framework, potentially paving the way for stricter ethical standards in the industry. Critics, including Kimberley Process Civil Society Coalition coordinator Jaff Bamenjo, argue that a single additional center won’t fully address the challenges and advocate for including more African producers.
Botswana’s certification center is expected to begin operations early next year, potentially alleviating some of the current supply chain disruptions.
