The Indian government announced that India has been chosen to lead the Kimberley Process starting January 1, 2026. Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal highlighted that this selection signifies global confidence in the Modi government’s dedication to upholding integrity and transparency in international trade. India, serving as Vice Chair in 2025 and Chair in 2026, aims to collaborate with all stakeholders to strengthen trust in the Kimberley Process, ensure compliance with rules, and boost its credibility.
India’s role in the Kimberley Process, a joint effort involving governments, the diamond industry, and civil society, is focused on preventing the circulation of “conflict diamonds” that fund rebel groups and disrupt legitimate governments, as per UN Security Council resolutions. Taking over as KP Vice Chair from December 25, India will assume the chairmanship in the upcoming year, marking its third term in this position. India’s leadership in the diamond sector, known for its manufacturing and trading activities, coincides with a period of changing global dynamics and a growing emphasis on sustainable sourcing practices.
During its tenure, India plans to concentrate on enhancing governance and compliance, promoting digital certification and traceability, ensuring transparency through data-driven monitoring, and fostering consumer confidence in conflict-free diamonds. The Kimberley Process Certification Scheme, initiated following a UN resolution in 2003, has developed into an effective tool for combatting the trade in conflict diamonds. With 60 participants currently, including the European Union and its Member States as a single entity, the Kimberley Process oversees more than 99% of the global rough diamond trade, establishing itself as a comprehensive international regulatory framework for the industry.
