DiamondBuzz
Botswana Eyes Strategic Diamond Cooperation with Russia
Diamond and rare earth cooperation seen as part of broader economic diversification strategy
Botswana has expressed readiness to collaborate with Russia in the diamond sector as part of its broader efforts to strengthen and diversify its economy, according to media reports citing the country’s Minister of International Relations, Phenyo Butale.
The proposed partnership is aimed at reducing Botswana’s reliance on a single resource-driven economy, Russia’s state-owned news agency TASS reported on Sunday. Cooperation is expected to extend beyond diamonds to include rare earth minerals, with a focus on leveraging expertise across mining and processing operations.
The move comes as Russia seeks to expand its footprint across Africa amid ongoing geopolitical tensions with Western nations, according to Reuters.
Separately, Botswana has indicated interest in increasing its existing 15% stake in De Beers, as Anglo American moves forward with plans to divest its 85% holding in the diamond major. However, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has cautioned against such a move, citing Botswana’s economic challenges and continued heavy dependence on diamonds at a time when global demand for the stones is softening.
DiamondBuzz
Richemont and Signet Jewelers Could Join Global Diamond Consortium In Bid For De Beers
Richemont, Signet Would Connect The Consortium To Key Global Growth Vectors Spanning Luxury High Jewelry and Mass-Market Retail.
The Global Diamond Consortium (GDC)
Richemont and Signet Jewelers are reported to be in talks about joining the Global Diamond Consortium (GDC), the preferred bidder for De Beers according to a Bloomberg News report.
​GDC was selected in July 2026 as one of Anglo American’s preferred bidders for De Beers as part of Anglo American’s ongoing corporate restructuring.
​The potential inclusion of Richemont—owner of luxury Maisons including Cartier and Van Cleef & Arpels—and Signet Jewelers—the world’s largest retailer of diamond jewelry, operating brands such as Kay Jewelers, Zales, and Jared—would connect the consortium to key global growth vectors spanning luxury high jewelry and mass-market retail.
​Strengthening the Natural Diamond Ecosystem: Participation by major luxury brands and global retail leaders reinforces commitment across the entire value chain—from responsible mining and manufacturing to consumer engagement.
​Balanced Governance Structure: Discussions center on potential minority equity positions that would support long-term category growth while maintaining appropriate separation between ownership and commercial strategy.
​Broad Stakeholder Participation: The consortium continues to advance talks with host governments, including discussions with the Government of Botswana regarding a potential increase in its equity share in De Beers from 15% to approximately 25%, alongside participation from private investors and southern African host nations.
​​Discussions between GDC, Richemont, Signet, and participating government stakeholders remain ongoing. Terms of any potential participation, including the size of equity interests, have not been finalized and remain subject to regulatory approvals and definitive documentation.
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