India has been officially selected to Chair the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme (KPCS) in 2026, marking a significant milestone for the global diamond industry. The announcement, welcomed by the Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) and highlights India’s growing leadership in ethical diamond governance.
This development goes far beyond diplomacy; it directly impacts career opportunities, ethical sourcing standards, international trade credibility, and industry education.
What Is the Kimberley Process?
The Kimberley Process Certification Scheme (KPCS) is the UN-mandated international regulatory framework, established in 2003, to prevent conflict diamonds, rough diamonds used to finance armed conflict, from entering the legitimate global supply chain.
Key Facts About the Kimberley Process:
- Covers over 99% of the global rough diamond trade.
- Includes 85+ participating countries.
- Regulates only rough diamonds (not cut & polished).
- Requires tamper-proof sealing and KP certification.
- Allows trade only between KP member countries.
- Operates through cooperation between:
- Governments
- Diamond industry bodies
- Civil society organisations
The KP ensures that every shipment of rough diamonds traded internationally is certified conflict-free.
India’s Role as Kimberley Process Chair in 2026
India will:
- Serve as Vice Chair from 25 December 2025.
- Assume full Chairmanship from 1 January 2026.
- Lead KP plenary meetings, working groups, compliance discussions, and reforms.
This will be India’s third time chairing the Kimberley Process, reinforcing its position as a trusted global leader in the diamond ecosystem.
Why India’s Chairmanship Matters to the Diamond Industry
1. Global Recognition of India’s Diamond Leadership
India is the world’s largest diamond cutting and polishing hub, processing over 90% of the world’s diamonds by volume. Chairing the KP reflects international confidence in India’s governance, transparency, and regulatory maturity.
2. Strengthening Ethical Diamond Trade
India’s leadership is expected to focus on:
- Stronger compliance mechanisms.
- Improved traceability systems.
- Greater transparency in diamond sourcing.
- Reinforcing consumer trust in conflict-free diamonds.
This is critical as global buyers increasingly demand ethical and responsible sourcing.
Official Responses
- External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar welcomed the selection, saying India’s chairpersonship reaffirms its role in global governance of the diamond trade and reflects trust in India’s approach.
- Commerce & Industry Minister Piyush Goyal highlighted that the decision reflects global confidence in India’s commitment to integrity and transparency in international trade.
- Kirit Bhansali, Chairman, GJEPC, welcomed India’s selection as Kimberley Process Chair for 2026, calling it a reflection of global confidence in India’s principled leadership and commitment to strengthening diamond trade governance.
Why This Is Important for Gemology & Diamond Students
Modern Gemologists and Jewellery Professionals are expected to understand:
- Conflict-free diamond sourcing
- KP certification processes
- Global diamond regulations
- Responsible trade practices
For students and professionals alike, understanding the Kimberley Process is no longer optional; it is essential for long-term success in the global gems & jewellery industry.
What the Gems & Jewellery Industry Can Expect in 2026
Industry experts anticipate India’s KP leadership to focus on:
- Digital certification and traceability systems.
- Faster and more transparent compliance mechanisms.
- Inclusive collaboration between governments, industry, and civil society.
- Enhancing the relevance of KP in a changing diamond market.
India’s leadership of the Kimberley Process in 2026 reinforces its position as a global guardian of ethical diamond trade. For gemology students, jewellery designers, diamond traders, and industry professionals, this moment highlights the importance of knowledge, compliance, and responsibility in shaping the future of the diamond industry.
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