DiamondBuzz
Young Diamantaires transitions into a formal industry association
The Young Diamantaires, a vibrant and rapidly growing collective of diamond and jewelry professionals, has officially transitioned into a formal industry association. Based in Dubai, the organization now boasts a diverse membership of over 500 individuals across 25 countries. This development marks a significant step in the group’s evolution and further positions it as a forward-thinking force within the global diamond industry.
Founded in 2016 during the 37th World Diamond Congress in Dubai, the Young Diamantaires began as a discussion group with a mission to empower the next generation of industry leaders. With a strong emphasis on creativity, innovation, and inclusivity, the association is committed to driving positive change through professional development, sustainability, ethical practices, and the exploration of new opportunities in the diamond and jewelry sectors.
n a landmark move, the group has now been formally established as an industry association. This official recognition underlines its long-term commitment to shaping the future of the diamond industry. The announcement was accompanied by the election of its inaugural board of directors, comprising prominent leaders from key industry bodies across various countries:
David Troostwyk – President, London Diamond Bourse (LDB),Elodie Daguzan – Executive Director, World Diamond Council (WDC),Kevin Vantyghem – President, Vantyghem Diamonds,Melissa Smet – Executive Director, Syndicate of the Belgian Diamond Industry (SBD),Mike Asscher – President, Royal Asscher Diamonds,Rachel Sahar – Founder, R Sahar Diamonds,Shai Schnitzer – President, S Schnitzer Diamonds
This leadership team reflects the association’s global outlook and its commitment to representing diverse voices within the diamond community.
The Young Diamantaires represents a new generation of industry professionals united by a shared passion for diamonds as both a livelihood and a cultural cornerstone. Its members span continents and cultures, embodying a wealth of perspectives that contribute to its dynamic approach to problem-solving and industry development.
The formal establishment of the Young Diamantaires as an industry association marks a pivotal moment for the next generation of diamond professionals. With a strong foundation in innovation, ethics, and global collaboration, the organization is well-positioned to lead transformative efforts in the diamond and jewelry industry, ensuring its relevance and resilience for years to come.
DiamondBuzz
AWDC Hails EU-India Trade Pact, Sees Strong Export Boost for Antwerp-Polished Diamonds in India
Tariff cut on Antwerp-polished diamonds seen boosting exports and strengthening Europe’s position in India’s fast-growing jewellery market.
The Antwerp World Diamond Centre (AWDC) has welcomed the conclusion of the EU–India trade agreement. The pact provides for a reduction of India’s import duty on naturally polished diamonds of European origin, from 5.5% to 2.5%. AWDC said the tariff reduction follows its sustained lobbying in close coordination with the European Commission.
“We are extremely pleased with the outcome of the long-awaited trade agreement between Europe and India,” said Karen Rentmeesters, CEO of AWDC. “Thanks to AWDC’s intensive and sustained lobbying, in close cooperation with the European Commission, India’s import duty on polished diamonds has been reduced from 5.5% to 2.5%. This is an important boost for the Belgian diamond sector and is expected to have a positive impact on exports of Antwerp-polished diamonds to India.”
She added that the agreement strengthens Antwerp’s competitive position as a polishing hub. “Diamonds polished in Europe will now be able to enter India at a more favourable tariff than before, and also compared to other major trading hubs. India is one of the fastest-growing consumer markets for jewellery and therefore also offers strong prospects for European diamonds.”
Rentmeesters also highlighted the importance of tariff stability. “Since 2012, we have seen the tariff fluctuate from 2% to 2.5%, then to 5% and even 7.5% in 2018, before falling again to 5.5% in 2022. This lack of predictability created uncertainty within the sector. The fact that the tariff is now anchored in a trade agreement provides much-needed stability in a period that — partly due to geopolitical developments — is particularly challenging for the diamond sector, as it is for many other sectors.”
Trade agreements need to be ratified by European and national parliaments before entering into force. This procedure that usually takes multiple months or sometimes even years, AWDC noted.
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