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India has assumed the Chair of the Kimberley Process (KP) for the year 2026. This marks an important development in global diamond governance, as the KP regulates international trade in rough diamonds to prevent their use in financing armed conflicts.

What is the Kimberley Process?

The Kimberley Process is a tripartite coalition of governments, civil society and the diamond industry established to eliminate the trade in “conflict diamonds.”

Conflict Diamonds Defined

As per UN Security Council Resolution 1459, conflict diamonds are defined as:

“Rough diamonds used by rebel movements or their allies to finance conflict aimed at undermining legitimate governments.”

The KP was established in 2003 based on a United Nations mandate to regulate global trade in rough diamonds.

Structure and Membership

• 60 participants, representing 86 countries (European Union counts as a single participant)
• Covers over 99% of global rough diamond production and trade
• Operates on a consensus-based decision-making mechanism
• Meets twice annually at:
  • Intersessional meetings
  • Plenary meetings
• Chairmanship rotates annually among participating countries

The KP functions through a tripartite structure involving governments, industry stakeholders and civil society groups.

Kimberley Process Certification Scheme (KPCS)

The operational mechanism of the KP is the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme (KPCS).

Key Features:

• Each shipment of rough diamonds must be accompanied by a Kimberley Process Certificate
• Shipments must be transported in tamper-resistant containers
• Trade is permitted only between participating countries
• Countries must establish:
  • National legislation
  • Import/export controls
  • Transparent statistical data exchange

The certificate verifies that the shipment is conflict-free and complies with KP minimum requirements.

India’s Role in the Kimberley Process

India has been an active participant in the KPCS since 2003. As one of the world’s largest diamond cutting and polishing centres, India plays a crucial role in the global diamond value chain.

Institutional Framework in India:

• Department of Commerce – Nodal department
• Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) – Designated Importing and Exporting Authority
  • Issues KP Certificates
  • Custodian of certificates received in India

India’s chairmanship in 2026 provides an opportunity to strengthen transparency, improve traceability and enhance institutional credibility within the KP framework.