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.”
DiamondBuzz
International Diamond Premier League to be held in Hong Kong
Designed as a community-building initiative, IDPL uses cricket to connect major natural diamond hubs on a single platform.
The third edition of the International Diamond Premier League (IDPL), a cricket tournament created for the global natural diamond community, will be held in Hong Kong from 19 to 22 March 2026.
Following its earlier editions in Belgium and India, IDPL 3.0 will bring together leading diamantaires and industry partners from Belgium, India, and Hong Kong for four days of competitive cricket and networking.
The Grand Opening Ceremony is scheduled for 22 March 2026 at 11:00 AM at the Tin Kwong Road Recreation Ground, and will be attended by industry leaders, dignitaries and invited guests.
Designed as a community-building initiative, IDPL uses cricket to connect major natural diamond hubs on a single platform. By bringing together teams from India, Belgium and Hong Kong, the league highlights the shared interests of manufacturing, trading and retail centers that drive the natural diamond pipeline.
The Hong Kong edition aims to strengthen collaboration among diamantaires, manufacturers, retailers and service providers across continents, while also promoting confidence in natural diamonds by emphasizing their rarity, craftsmanship and enduring emotional value. The event also underscores Hong Kong’s position as a strategic bridge between East and West for the diamond and jewellery trade.
Through its matches and associated activities, IDPL 3.0 places the spotlight on natural diamonds and the people behind the industry—from cutting and polishing specialists to high jewellery houses and secure logistics providers—demonstrating a collective commitment to integrity, excellence and long-term growth for the natural diamond sector.
SimStar Asia Limited, part of the Sim Gems Group and a Hong Kong-based manufacturer and supplier of high-end natural diamonds, is the Title Sponsor, while Lamha Gems Limited joins as Diamond Sponsor supporting the league’s mission to bring international diamantaires together.
Among the other partners, Ferrari Group, a global specialist in secure logistics for jewellery, luxury goods and precious metals, is the Platinum Sponsor, while Malca-Amit Group of Companies, known for secured delivery, vaulting and trade-show logistics for the diamond and jewellery trade, is the Gold Sponsor. Hong Kong-based high jewellery house Dehres will support the initiative as the Silver Sponsor, reinforcing its commitment to the natural diamond trade.
Team sponsorship also reflects the industry’s global participation. Anita Diamonds, represented by Chirag Shah, is sponsoring the Belgium team, showcasing the dynamism of Antwerp’s diamond community. Meanwhile, H S Jogani, led by Ronak Jogani, is sponsoring the India team, highlighting India’s longstanding leadership in diamond cutting, polishing and trading.
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