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
FURA Gems Gets RJC Certification
FURA Gems Sets New Ethical Standard For Color Gemstones
FURA Gems has been certified by the Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC) following an independent third-party audit of its operations against the RJC Code of Practices, the industry’s benchmark for responsible sourcing and business ethics. According to the RJC, FURA Gems is the first coloured gemstone producer to achieve this certification.
The certification covers key areas including governance, human rights, labour standards, environmental management and supply chain due diligence. The RJC Code of Practices incorporates globally recognised frameworks such as the OECD Due Diligence Guidance, the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, and IFC Performance Standards.
FURA Gems described the certification as an important milestone for the company, noting that it reflects strengthened governance, operational controls and a continued focus on transparency and traceability.
FURA Gems operates mining assets in Australia and Mozambique, supplying responsibly sourced rubies and sapphires to global manufacturers and brands. The company has invested in traceability systems, including blockchain-enabled mine-to-market tracking, to meet growing industry expectations.
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