Editor’s Note
India has been chosen to chair the Kimberley Process from 2026, a critical global initiative to halt the trade in conflict diamonds. This appointment underscores India’s pivotal role in the diamond industry and aligns with increasing global demands for ethical and sustainable sourcing.
The Kimberley Process (KP) Plenary has selected India to assume the chairpersonship of the Kimberley Process from 1 January 2026, according to a Commerce & Industry Ministry statement on Thursday.
The Kimberley Process is a tripartite initiative involving governments, the international diamond industry, and civil society, aimed at preventing the trade in “conflict diamonds”—rough diamonds used by rebel groups or their allies to finance conflicts that undermine legitimate governments, as defined in United Nations Security Council resolutions.
As a leading global hub for diamond manufacturing and trade, India’s leadership comes at a time of shifting geopolitics and growing emphasis on sustainable and responsible sourcing.
During its tenure, India will focus on strengthening governance and compliance, advancing digital certification and traceability, enhancing transparency through data-driven monitoring, and building consumer trust in conflict-free diamonds, the statement said.
Welcoming the decision, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said that India’s selection reflects global trust in the Modi government’s commitment to promoting integrity and transparency in international trade.
India takes over as KP Vice Chair from 25 December 2025, before assuming the chairpersonship in the new year. This will be the third time India has been entrusted with the chair of the Kimberley Process.
As Vice Chair in 2025 and Chair in 2026, India will work closely with all participants and observers to reinforce confidence in the Kimberley Process, ensure rule-based compliance, and enhance its credibility, in line with its core objectives and evolving global expectations, while working towards making the KP a more inclusive and effective multilateral framework.
