DiamondBuzz
Canada Announces Tax Relief to Support Struggling Diamond Sector in Northwest Territories
Government steps in with targeted financial measures to stabilize region’s largest industry amid falling prices and market uncertainty.
The Canadian government has introduced a series of tax-relief measures aimed at supporting the diamond-mining sector in the Northwest Territories, as the industry faces mounting financial challenges. The initiative seeks to preserve economic stability in a region where diamond mining contributes approximately 20% of its GDP, with major operations including Diavik, Ekati, and Gahcho Kué.
According to the Government of the Northwest Territories, the sector is currently under pressure from low global diamond prices, inflation, supply-chain disruptions, and emerging tariff impacts. These conditions have led to significant losses for mining companies. Mountain Province, co-owner of Gahcho Kué with De Beers, reported a $56.4 million net loss in 2024, while Ekati’s owner Burgundy Diamonds lost $94.7 million and Diavik operator Rio Tinto reported a $127 million underlying loss.
To address these issues, the government will double the number of local diamond valuations in 2025 and 2026, covering associated costs to help producers move rough stones to market more efficiently. A temporary reduction in the minerals tax rate will result in $11.2 million in property tax savings for the three mines. Additionally, funds previously set aside for carbon tax contributions will be released to ease cash flow constraints.
The government will also collaborate with Indigenous governments and development corporations to offer further infrastructure and transitional support.

“This is about protecting our economy from sudden shock,” said Caroline Wawzonek, minister of finance for the Northwest Territories. “These targeted, short-term supports are not about corporate profits — they’re about maintaining stability for the workers, families, communities, and Indigenous governments that rely on [the diamond] sector. Our government’s support must be directed to ensuring that Northwest Territory-based labor and businesses are protected in this challenging operating environment.”
DiamondBuzz
Diamond Market Shows Resilience As Large Stones And Fancy Shapes Drive Demand
Global Sector Reports Stable Fundamentals Ahead Of Key Industry Events
The global diamond sector is maintaining overall stability, with notable strength emerging in large, high-quality stones and fancy elongated shapes, according to the latest trade intelligence.
Diamonds in the 7–9.99 carat range are experiencing robust demand, while 10-carat-and-larger sizes — particularly D-Flawless rounds — continue to sell briskly. Smaller round stones in the 0.30–0.89 carat range are also showing signs of stabilization after a period of softness.
The Bharat Diamond Bourse in Mumbai is anticipating a market recovery following a temporary Iran ceasefire, with optimism returning among regional traders. However, manufacturers are adopting a wait-and-see approach ahead of next week’s De Beers Sight April 27–30, with a modest allocation widely projected. Indian factories are preparing for May summer closures, leading to a deferral in rough buying activity.
On the supply side, Angola has forecast an 8% increase in rough diamond production for 2025, projecting output of 15.2 million carats — a development expected to support broader market supply.
Fancy elongated shapes — including ovals, marquises, and emeralds — are outperforming rounds in the 2-carat-and-larger segment. High-quality marquises are commanding the highest premiums in the market, with long radiants and long cushions also facing notable supply constraints. In India, 2-carat-plus sizes are advancing, supported by sustained U.S. demand and rough shortages that are providing upward price support for polished stones.
Israel’s market is observing a temporary pause in activity due to Memorial Day and Independence Day observances. In the United States, the National Retail Federation projects $7.5 billion in Mother’s Day jewelry sales on May 10.
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