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.”
International News
SIJE 2026 To Host 450+ Global Brands As Singapore Welcomes Back The World Diamond Congress After 38 Years
The Largest Edition In The Expo’s History Will Coincide With The Inaugural Singapore Diamond & Jewellery Week From 9–15 July 2026.
Singapore International Jewellery Expo (SIJE) 2026 is set to stage its largest-ever edition, bringing together more than 450 brands and exhibitors from 26 countries across 10,000 square metres at Marina Bay Sands from 9 to 12 July 2026.
The event will be officially inaugurated by Alvin Tan, Minister of State for the Ministry of Trade & Industry and the Ministry of National Development, Singapore, and is expected to attract around 18,000 trade buyers and consumers over four days.
A major highlight of this year’s edition is Singapore hosting the 41st World Diamond Congress for the first time since 1988, marking the prestigious event’s return to the city-state after 38 years. The Congress, scheduled from 12 to 15 July at PARKROYAL COLLECTION Marina Bay, will bring together global leaders from across the diamond value chain, including miners, manufacturers, traders, retailers and industry associations.
SIJE 2026 also forms one of the two pillars of the inaugural Singapore Diamond & Jewellery Week (SDJW), a week-long celebration running from 9 to 15 July 2026 that will feature retail experiences, industry events, promotions and international showcases across the island nation.
Despite ongoing global economic uncertainties, SIJE 2026 has recorded its strongest international participation to date, underlining confidence in Singapore’s position as a trusted hub for jewellery, luxury retail, gemstones and high-value trade.
The exhibition will feature prominent country pavilions and exhibitors from Italy, Hong Kong and Uzbekistan, alongside leading jewellers, gemstone dealers, luxury watchmakers, designers and manufacturers from around the world.

One of the unique attractions this year will be the display of a replica of the historic Crown of Carlo di Borbone at the Diamond Exchange of Singapore (DES) Pavilion. The crown, originally created in the 18th century for Charles III of Spain, has been reconstructed from historical records and is linked to the legendary “Perfect Colour of Violet” diamond
Organised by Italian Exhibition Group (IEG) Asia, SIJE continues to strengthen Singapore’s role as a gateway to the rapidly expanding markets of Southeast Asia and the Asia-Pacific region.
Industry observers note that the scale of SIJE 2026, coupled with the return of the World Diamond Congress, reflects growing momentum in the regional luxury market and reinforces Singapore’s standing as one of the world’s most important centres for jewellery trade, craftsmanship, innovation and international business exchange.
-
International News1 day agoSIJE 2026 To Host 450+ Global Brands As Singapore Welcomes Back The World Diamond Congress After 38 Years
-
National News1 day agoMCX Gold, Silver Move North On June US Employment Report
-
BrandBuzz1 day agoMia By Tanishq and Lakmé Join Hands To Celebrate Everyday Style and Self-Expression
-
National News1 day agoIIJS Bharat Premiere 2026 Conducts Nepal Buyer Outreach

