India Hosts Key Stakeholder Consultation for Global Diamond Industry
India, stepping into its role as Chair of the Kimberley Process (KP) for 2026, gathered stakeholders in Luanda, Angola, on November 3, 2026. The meeting included Chairs and Vice-Chairs from various KP Working Groups, along with representatives from Ghana, the UAE, and significant observer organizations such as the World Diamond Council. The primary focus was on vital issues concerning the global diamond industry like responsible sourcing of rough diamonds and boosting consumer confidence.
This gathering marked a proactive move by India as it prepares for the KP Plenary set to take place in New Delhi from November 30 to December 4, 2026. The consultation coincided with the African Diamond Producers’ Association (ADPA) 20th anniversary celebrations in Luanda, emphasizing the importance of global collaboration in the diamond sector.
Strengthening Global Partnerships
India holds observer status within the ADPA, which serves as a crucial platform for engaging with African diamond-producing nations. This collaboration aims at ensuring secure diamond supply chains, facilitating technical exchanges, and promoting ethical practices within the industry.
During the consultations, the Chairs and Vice-Chairs of KP Working Bodies shared updates on their work progress and discussed draft proposals for the upcoming Plenary. Proposed topics included initiatives on responsible rough diamond sourcing and improvements to the compliance and statistical reporting frameworks.
Advancing Compliance and Consumer Confidence
Under the leadership of Shri Yashvir Singh, Additional Secretary at the Department of Commerce and KP Chair, the consultations fostered constructive dialogues about the evolving priorities of the diamond industry. Topics covered included the sustainability of diamond-producing communities, the KP Secretariat’s funding, and enhancing compliance with the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme.
Singh emphasized the themes of Confidence, Compliance, and Credibility during the meeting, highlighting their significance in shaping the diamond industry’s future. He noted that these elements are essential in ensuring that diamond resources meaningfully contribute to the development of producing countries.
ADPA’s Legacy and Future Directions
The African Diamond Producers’ Association, founded on November 4, 2006, aims to bolster cooperation among African diamond-producing countries and currently includes over 15 member nations. Its leadership announced the inclusion of Botswana as an Observer member during the recent gathering.
Singh, while participating in the ADPA’s 20th-anniversary program, highlighted the global implications of African diamond production. He spoke about the critical partnership between producers and consumer markets, aiming to enhance sustainability within the industry.
Looking Ahead to the KP Plenary
The discussions in Luanda are setting the stage for the upcoming KP Plenary in New Delhi, where participants will continue to refine their strategies regarding conflict diamonds and responsible sourcing. Following the Plenary, the New Delhi Diamond Dialogue (KP Forum) is scheduled for November 29, 2026, providing additional opportunities for stakeholder engagement.
The Kimberley Process Certification Scheme operates to prevent conflict diamonds from entering legitimate trade, involving various governments, industries, and civil society. Currently, it comprises 60 participants, representing a diverse global coalition. India’s assumption of the Chair role in January 2026 marks its third time leading this critical international initiative.
