December 7, 2023

In a world where the sparkle of diamonds often overshadows the complexities of their trade, recent developments involving the Group of Seven’s (G7) restrictions on Russian-origin diamonds have brought a new dimension to the global gem and jewellery industry. The Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) of India, a pivotal player in this market, has expressed concerns and sought flexibility regarding the implementation of these restrictions.

India’s Central Role in the Global Diamond Industry

India, accounting for 90% of the world’s diamond cutting and polishing, stands at the forefront of this industry. The GJEPC, under the direction of Chairman Vipul Shah, has expressed its concern regarding the G7’s decision to impose direct import restrictions on diamonds of Russian origin beginning January 1, 2024, and on diamonds processed by third countries beginning March 1, 2024.

While respecting the G7’s decision, we would like more details on how such decisions will be implemented. We have questions about what is meant by a major rough diamond importer in the G7 and the powers it will have in determining the compliance of Indian diamond exports to the G7.

Vipul Shah, Chairman, GJEPC

Concerns and Calls for Flexibility

Vipul Shah has highlighted the Indian Gems and Jewellery trade’s reservations regarding the timelines for these restrictions. Recognizing the industry’s diversity, the GJEPC is advocating for more flexibility in these timelines. The council is also seeking more details on the implementation of these decisions, particularly concerning the compliance of Indian diamond exports to the G7 countries.

Impact on Small and Marginal Diamond Units

The GJEPC has emphasized the need to consider the interests of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and marginal diamond units, which contribute significantly to the industry and support millions of livelihoods.

We are happy to note that the G7 will remain engaged with us as diamond manufacturers. GJEPC will strongly advocate that when regulating the sanctions the interests of SMEs and marginal diamond units should be kept in mind, recognizing their active contribution to this industry and the millions of livelihoods which are dependent on it. We will also be discussing with WDC and aligning all stakeholders to ensure that their businesses are not disrupted.

Vipul Shah, Chairman, GJEPC

Global Perspectives and the Antwerp Factor

De Beers, a top global rough diamond producer, shares India’s concerns. The plan to channel the G7’s imports via Belgium, particularly through Antwerp, the world’s main diamond hub, may create supply chain bottlenecks and additional costs, potentially hampering African production’s access to the G7 markets. This approach raises questions about how the country of origin of diamonds should be verified and where this verification should take place.

If the intent is to apply a purely technological certification system and to channel all rough imports to the G7 through Belgium, this will be to the detriment of responsible African producers, to all those who depend on the artisanal mining sector, and to the wider industry

De Beers

The Road Ahead

As the industry navigates these turbulent waters, the GJEPC continues to make representations to the Indian Government, confident in the leadership’s ability to safeguard the interests of the Indian trade. The GJEPC’s stance and the ensuing discussions with the G7 and other stakeholders, like the World Diamond Council, are pivotal in shaping the future of the global diamond trade amid evolving geopolitical landscapes.

FAQ on G7’s Russian Diamond Restrictions and Global Diamond Trade Impact

Article Source References

• G7 leaders agree to restrict imports of Russian diamonds
• GJEPC India seeks flexibility on timing of implementation of import restrictions on Russian-origin diamonds
• G7 to phase in direct, indirect bans of Russian diamonds from Jan. 1