DiamondBuzz
Israel Diamond Exchange quits WFDB amid tariff dispute
The Israel Diamond Exchange (IDE) has suspended its membership in the World Federation of Diamond Bourses (WFDB), citing dissatisfaction with the organisation’s conduct during the ongoing US import tariff crisis, Rapaport News reported.
In a letter to WFDB Secretary-General Rony Unterman on 8th April, the IDE board said the decision followed unanswered requests for information and actions that had harmed Israel’s diamond trade. IDE President Nissim Zuaretz told Rapaport the move was triggered by WFDB President Yoram Dvash’s comments in Calcalist, where he criticised country-specific lobbying and promoted a global strategy for tariff exemptions.
Zuaretz accused Dvash of trying to take credit for advocacy led by the World Diamond Council (WDC), potentially jeopardising Israel’s own efforts. Dvash denied the claims, telling Rapaport they were “untrue and frankly absurd,” and emphasised the WFDB’s ongoing collaboration with the WDC.
Zuaretz said the IDE would shift focus to partnerships with the WDC and the International Diamond Manufacturers Association (IDMA), while also saving over $29,000 in annual fees. Dvash described IDE’s withdrawal as “rash,” warning it could weaken global unity at a critical time for the industry.
DiamondBuzz
Botswana Stepping Up Diplomatic Efforts To Complete The Removal Of US Tariffs
Botswana Leverages Critical Minerals To Push For The Full Removal Of US Tariffs On Diamond Exports
Botswana is stepping up diplomatic and trade efforts to secure the complete removal of US tariffs on its diamonds and other key exports, underscoring the move as vital to regaining its competitive edge in the global market. Minerals and Energy Minister Bogolo Kenewendo has reiterated the government’s firm stance that negotiations will continue until all tariffs are eliminated.
Currently subject to a 15% tariff—down from a steep 37% imposed in April 2025 and later reduced in August—the country has formally submitted its proposals and requests to the United States and is awaiting a response. The government has maintained a consistent position that the remaining tariff continues to hinder Botswana’s export potential, particularly in the diamond sector, where it ranks as the world’s second-largest producer after Russia.
To strengthen its negotiating position by positioning itself as a reliable supplier of both diamonds and essential minerals, Botswana aims to become the first African diamond-producing nation to achieve a tariff-free trade arrangement with the US, a move that could significantly enhance its long-term trade prospects and economic resilience.
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