India Assumes Chair of Kimberley Process for 2026

India has taken over the chairmanship of the Kimberley Process (KP) for 2026, marking a key step in global efforts to regulate trade in “conflict diamonds.”

The KP is an international mechanism designed to prevent the flow of rough diamonds used by rebel or insurgent groups to finance violence against legitimate governments.

What is the Kimberley Process?

The KP was initiated in May 2000 by countries of southern Africa to curb illegal trade in conflict diamonds. Negotiations among 37 signatories led to the launch of the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme (KPCS) in 2003.

Today, the KP has 60 participants representing 86 countries and accounts for about 99.8% of global rough diamond production.

Under the KPCS:

• Each consignment of rough diamonds must carry a KP certificate.
• Trade is allowed only between certified KP members.
• Member countries must share accurate statistics on diamond production and trade.

Global Production and India’s Role

Countries such as Angola, Botswana, Canada, Congo, Namibia and Russia together account for over 85% of global rough diamond production.

India is not a major producer but plays a crucial role in the diamond value chain as a leading importer and processor. It imports roughly 40% of global rough diamond imports by quantity and value.

Structure and Challenges

The KP operates as a tripartite partnership involving governments, industry bodies and civil society organisations. Despite its success in reducing trade in conflict diamonds, it faces criticism over enforcement gaps, limited definitions of conflict diamonds and monitoring challenges.