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.”
Swarovski’s turnaround is sparkling brighter than ever, clocking 6% year-on-year organic growth in 2025 as its bold “LUXignite” strategy ignited real dividends. The Austrian family gem generated €1.97 billion ($2.26 billion) in revenue, fueled by its global network of 2,300 boutiques.
Pioneering “pop luxury” since 2022, the precision-cut crystal powerhouse shifted gears to jewelry-led dominance, supercharged by Grammy queen Ariana Grande’s 2023 ambassador gig—fusing high fashion with pop culture magic.
CEO Alexis Nasard said, “Our consistent progress continued in 2025 despite a challenging environment, as we delivered broad-based topline growth, strengthened profitability, and improved cash generation, while reaching new heights of brand desirability and anchoring the Swarovski brand as a cultural icon in the pop luxury space. The execution of the LUXignite strategy is delivering as intended.”
Growth lit up everywhere: Growth was broad-based across all regions and channels, led by North America, which rose 10%. The company also saw strong performance in its directly operated channels, including branded boutiques and its e-commerce platform. Swarovski said its business-to-consumer jewelry division continued to outperform the broader market, while its B2B segment benefited from renewed commercial plans and optimized manufacturing capacity. EBITDA climbed 12% on robust cash flows.
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