Joint Statement by Botswana and the G7 diamond technical team:
A G7 import ban on Russian origin diamonds began on 1 January
2024. On 1 March 2024, Russian diamonds processed in third
countries were also banned in the G7 jurisdictions.
On 1 March 2024, the first certification node with the ability to
certify the origin of rough diamonds and issue G7 certificates
became operational in the EU. Following this, the G7 diamond
technical team and Botswana have increased collaboration on
enhancing traceability and transparency in the diamond
trade.
To enhance Botswana's capacity in certifying rough diamonds for
export, aligning with the G7 requirements to prevent
Russian-mined diamonds from entering G7 markets and ensure
traceability throughout the supply chain, the Belgium and
Botswana teams conducted a comprehensive gap analysis, assessing
current frameworks and identifying areas that require further
alignment.
As a result, Botswana and the G7 diamond technical team are now
crafting a roadmap to address any identified gaps, aiming to have
the export certification node fully operational in Botswana as
soon as possible next year.
H.E. President Duma Boko of Botswana, in his recent keynote
address at the FACET event in Antwerp on 26 November 2024,
underscored the importance of ethical and sustainable diamond
mining as a cornerstone of Botswana's ongoing efforts to enhance
transparency and accountability within the diamond industry.
“Botswana is committed to pioneering traceability and responsible
mining practices, ensuring that our diamonds not only shine in
beauty but also embody integrity and ethical stewardship,” he
said.
Establishing this certification node will reinforce Botswana's
position as a responsible global leader in diamond production,
offering reassurance to international buyers and stakeholders.
This development is expected to increase investor confidence,
support economic growth, and promote ethical practices across the
diamond supply chain. The G7 diamond technical team will continue
engaging with other African diamond-producing countries such as
Namibia and Angola to consider setting up additional export
certification nodes.
