India Strengthens Global Diamond Industry Ties Ahead of Kimberley Process

India is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the global diamond industry as it prepares for the Kimberley Process (KP) Plenary scheduled from November 30 to December 4, 2026, in New Delhi. As the current Chair of the KP, India convened a significant stakeholder consultation in Luanda, Angola, on November 3, 2026, which brought together key figures from various KP Working Groups, including the Vice-Chair from Ghana and the former Chair from the UAE. This gathering was part of India's broader strategy to enhance cooperation with diamond-producing countries, particularly in Africa, where India holds Observer status in the African Diamond Producers’ Association (ADPA).

India's leadership in the Kimberley Process emphasizes three core themes: Confidence, Compliance, and Credibility. The consultation in Luanda, led by Shri Yashvir Singh, Additional Secretary of the Department of Commerce, served as a platform for discussing critical issues affecting the diamond industry. Participants included representatives from the World Diamond Council, the KP Civil Society Coalition, and the Diamond Development Initiative, all of whom contributed to a dialogue focused on responsible sourcing and institutional governance.

The KP aims to prevent the trade of conflict diamonds, and India's chairmanship is seen as an opportunity to reinforce the integrity of the diamond supply chain. The discussions in Luanda highlighted the need for improved compliance mechanisms and consumer confidence in diamond sourcing, which are essential for the sustainability of diamond-producing nations and communities.

India's Observer status in ADPA is a strategic advantage, allowing for deeper engagement with African diamond-producing countries. This relationship is crucial as ADPA members collectively account for over 60% of global diamond production. The association, which celebrated its 20th anniversary in November 2026, aims to foster collaboration among its 15 member countries and 8 Observers, including India and the Russian Federation.

The recent admission of Botswana as an Observer Member during the ADPA Council of Ministers meeting further strengthens this coalition. The cooperation facilitated by ADPA provides opportunities for knowledge exchange, market access, and the promotion of ethical practices in diamond mining and trade. This collaboration is vital for securing rough diamond supply chains and ensuring that the benefits of diamond production reach local communities.

The stakeholder consultation identified several priorities for the upcoming KP Plenary. Among these are initiatives related to responsible rough diamond sourcing, improvements to statistical reporting platforms, and measures to enhance institutional governance and compliance. The discussions also touched on the need for digitalization of certification processes, which could streamline operations and improve transparency within the industry.

Shri Yashvir Singh emphasized the importance of building a shared understanding of these issues among stakeholders. He stated, "Our endeavor is to advance practical outcomes through constructive dialogue and consensus-based decision-making." This approach aims to ensure that the KP remains relevant and effective in addressing the challenges faced by the diamond industry today.

As the diamond industry faces increasing scrutiny over ethical sourcing and sustainability, India's proactive stance is crucial. The KP's efforts to redefine the conflict diamond definition and enhance compliance mechanisms are steps toward restoring consumer confidence. The emphasis on artisanal and alluvial diamond production also highlights the need for inclusive practices that benefit local communities involved in diamond mining.

The upcoming Plenary in New Delhi represents a significant opportunity for India to showcase its commitment to ethical practices and sustainable development in the diamond sector. By leading discussions on these critical issues, India aims to position itself as a key player in the global diamond industry, advocating for practices that not only protect the integrity of the supply chain but also support the livelihoods of those in diamond-producing regions.

India's engagement in the global diamond industry reflects a broader commitment to ethical sourcing and sustainable practices. As the KP Plenary approaches, the groundwork laid in Luanda will be instrumental in shaping the future of the diamond trade. With a focus on collaboration, compliance, and consumer confidence, India is set to lead the charge toward a more responsible and sustainable diamond industry.