Editor’s Note
India’s upcoming chairmanship of the Kimberley Process in 2026 marks a pivotal moment for the global diamond trade, reflecting the nation’s rising stature and its commitment to ethical sourcing. This leadership role presents both a significant responsibility and an opportunity to shape the future of conflict-free diamonds.
India is set to assume the chairmanship of the Kimberley Process (KP), a crucial global mechanism dedicated to eliminating the trade of ‘conflict diamonds’, effective from January 1, 2026. This significant role underscores India’s growing influence in the international diamond industry and its commitment to responsible sourcing practices. The government announced this, highlighting the trust placed in India to lead this vital initiative.
As the incoming chair, India aims to further strengthen the existing framework of the Kimberley Process by focusing on several key areas. The nation plans to reinforce governance and compliance mechanisms to ensure strict adherence to the rules. A major emphasis will be placed on advancing digital certification and traceability systems, leveraging technology to enhance the integrity of the diamond supply chain. Furthermore, India intends to actively work on increasing transparency through data-driven monitoring and building consumer confidence in the authenticity and ethical sourcing of conflict-free diamonds.
This appointment marks the third occasion India has been entrusted with the chairmanship of the Kimberley Process. India’s selection reflects global confidence in the current government’s commitment to promoting integrity and transparency in international trade, as expressed by Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal.
As a major global hub for diamond manufacturing and trading, India’s leadership is particularly timely amidst shifting geopolitical landscapes and the growing global emphasis on sustainable and responsible sourcing of natural resources. The Kimberley Process Certification Scheme (KPCS), established in 2003, has become a robust tool for curbing the illicit diamond trade.
While this news does not directly impact stock prices on a large scale, it has significant implications for the Indian gem and jewellery sector. Increased transparency and consumer confidence could boost demand for certified diamonds. India’s role as chair is expected to foster closer collaboration among participants, strengthen rule-based compliance, and enhance the credibility of the Kimberley Process. The focus on inclusivity and effectiveness aims to further fortify the multilateral framework in the face of emerging global expectations and challenges in the diamond trade.
This news is significant for the global diamond industry, particularly for India’s crucial diamond manufacturing and export sector. It aims to promote consumer confidence in ethically sourced diamonds, potentially increasing demand and value for certified goods. For investors, it highlights India’s strong position in global commodity governance and ethical trade practices.