GABORONE, Botswana — Botswana and the G7 have announced plans to establish a diamond export certification node in Botswana, aiming to enhance transparency and prevent Russian-origin diamonds from entering G7 markets.
The initiative is part of broader efforts to align Botswana’s diamond certification processes with G7 requirements, following import bans on Russian-mined diamonds introduced earlier this year.
A joint statement released Wednesday by Botswana and the G7 diamond technical team emphasized the significance of traceability in the global diamond trade.
“Botswana and the G7 diamond technical team are crafting a roadmap to address identified gaps, aiming to have the export certification node fully operational in Botswana as soon as possible next year,” the statement said.
Since March, the first certification node in the European Union has been operational, ensuring G7 certificates accompany rough diamonds. Botswana’s collaboration with Belgium has included a comprehensive analysis of its current frameworks to align with these standards.
President Duma Boko of Botswana highlighted the importance of ethical practices in a keynote address at the FACET event in Antwerp on Tuesday. “Botswana is committed to pioneering traceability and responsible mining practices, ensuring that our diamonds not only shine in beauty but also embody integrity and ethical stewardship,” he said.
The certification node will reinforce Botswana’s standing as a responsible diamond producer, offering assurances to international buyers and boosting investor confidence. The G7 also plans to engage with other African diamond-producing nations, including Namibia and Angola, to explore similar initiatives.
