International News
Zambia Lifts 15% Export Duty on Precious Gemstones
Gemfields Group Limited has expressed strong support for the Zambian government’s decision to suspend the 15% export duty on precious gemstones and metals, a move expected to significantly boost the country’s emerald industry. The suspension, announced by Zambia’s Minister of Finance, Dr. Situmbeko Musokotwane, is effective immediately, meaning the duty will no longer apply to emeralds mined by Kagem Mining Limited. The company is majority-owned by Gemfields (75%) with the remaining 25% held by Zambia’s Industrial Development Corporation.
Gemfields CEO, Sean Gilbertson, lauded the government’s swift action, stating, “We express our sincere thanks to President Hakainde Hichilema’s government for their prompt and impressive action in addressing the 15% export duty on precious gemstones. The Zambian emerald sector has experienced exceptional growth over the past 16 years and is now the world’s largest emerald exporter. This decision signals a clear commitment to fostering growth and job creation in Zambia, putting our industry back on track for continued success.”
A closed-door outreach session in Paris brought senior Kimberley Process (KP) leadership into direct dialogue with leading luxury jewellery maisons, positioning the certification system at the centre of brand risk, sourcing integrity and consumer trust.
Hosted by UFBJOP, the invitation-only discussion, held under Chatham House Rule, clarified how the KP works, why it remains central to the natural diamond value chain, and how it supports brand credibility in a market shaped by rising transparency expectations.
The panel featured Feriel Zerouki, President, World Diamond Council (WDC); Stéphane Fischler, former President, WDC; Anoop Mehta, Convenor – Diamond Panel, GJEPC; Ahmed Bin Sulayem, CEO, DMCC & former KP Chair; and Sabyasachi Ray, Executive Director, GJEPC & Deputy Advisor to KP Chair, who shared perspectives spanning industry, governance and trade.
The discussion opened with an overview of the KP’s origins and mechanics, followed by India’s 2026 Chairmanship priorities built around the “3Cs” – Credibility, Compliance and Confidence. The framework focuses on strengthening certification integrity, addressing financial risks like crypto-linked transactions, and improving consumer-facing communication.
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