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
Diamond Price Gains In Sept Led By Small, High-Quality Stones
US Retail Demand Strengthened, Particularly For 1–2 Ct (F–I, VS2–SI2) and 2+ Ct Stones. Lower-Quality Smaller Goods Remain Under Pressure From Lab-Grown Diamond Competition.
Diamond prices continued their upward trajectory in September—traditionally a slow month—driven by reduced production and rising demand. Round diamonds consistently outperformed fancy shapes.
US Market & Trading Sentiment: US retail demand strengthened, particularly for 1–2 ct (F–I, VS2–SI2) and 2+ ct stones. Lower-quality smaller goods remain under pressure from lab-grown diamond competition. Holidays in the US, Belgium, Israel, and India temporarily slowed regional trading.
Trade Show Trends (Hong Kong JGW): Show results were mixed: strong demand for finished jewelry and 2+ ct natural diamonds offset weak interest from Chinese buyers and sluggish movement in smaller, low-clarity goods.
Corporate & Supply Restructuring:
- De Beers is set to acquire Mountain Province’s 49% stake in the Gahcho Kué mine under a debt-restructuring agreement.
- Anglo American’s ongoing process to sell De Beers maintains broad market uncertainty, while recent De Beers rough sights indicate cautious buying.
- Petra Diamonds is evaluating strategic options, including potential asset sales.
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