The Kimberly Process (latest News)

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The Kimberley Process Certification Scheme (2003) is a UN-supported, multistakeholder initiative aimed at preventing the trade in conflict diamonds which financed civil wars in Africa. It mandates certification, sealed shipments and trade only among member states.

For India, the scheme is critical as it is the world’s largest cutting and polishing hub. The Department of Commerce acts as the nodal agency while Customs and GJEPC ensure implementation. KP enhances credibility of Indian exports, curbs smuggling and supports employment-intensive gems and jewellery industries.

However, the scheme faces criticisms: its narrow definition excludes human-rights violations by state actors, enforcement remains weak, and traceability loopholes persist. Political sensitivities often slow reforms.

Going forward, strengthening peer review, integrating technology-based traceability, and cautiously widening the mandate through consensus will be essential. For India, a robust KP enhances ethical trade and safeguards its strategic economic interests.

Why in News

India is set to assume the prestigious Chairpersonship of the Kimberley Process (KP) from 1 January 2026. Which is marking a significant milestone in the country’s global economic and diplomatic engagement. The decision was taken at the Kimberley Process Plenary reaffirming India’s growing stature as a responsible leader in ethical trade, transparency, and sustainable sourcing. This will be the third time India has been entrusted with the chair of this important international mechanism.

About The Kimberley Process

The Kimberley Process is a tripartite international initiative involving governments, the global diamond industry and civil society organizations.

Its primary objective is to prevent the trade in “conflict diamonds” also known as blood diamonds.

Conflict diamonds are defined as rough diamonds used by rebel groups or their allies to finance armed conflicts aimed at undermining legitimate governments, as recognized under United Nations Security Council resolutions.



Kimberley Process Certification Scheme (KPCS)

The Kimberley Process Certification Scheme (KPCS) was established pursuant to a UN resolution and came into force on 1 January 2003.

It mandates that international trade in rough diamonds can only take place between KP participants and must be accompanied by tamper proof certificates guaranteeing that the diamonds are conflict-free.

Over the years KPCS has emerged as the most comprehensive global framework regulating the rough diamond trade.

India’s Role and Timeline

India will formally assume the role of KP Vice Chair on 25 December 2025, before taking over as Chairperson on 1 January 2026.

This phased transition ensures continuity in leadership and policy direction.

Global Significance of the Kimberley Process

Currently the Kimberley Process has 60 participants, with the European Union and its member states counted as a single participant.

Together KP members account for over 99% of the global rough diamond trade, underlining the Process’s unparalleled global reach and relevance.

By curbing the flow of conflict diamonds the KP has played a crucial role in reducing violence in conflict prone regions particularly in parts of Africa while promoting ethical practices in the diamond industry.

India’s Key Focus Areas as Chair (2026)

During its tenure as Vice Chair in 2025 and Chair in 2026, India will prioritize,

Strengthening governance and compliance mechanisms within the KP

Advancing digital certification and traceability systems

Enhancing transparency through data driven monitoring

Building consumer confidence in conflict free diamonds

Making the Kimberley Process more inclusive and effective as a multilateral framework

These priorities align with India’s broader emphasis on technology-driven governance and responsible global leadership.

 

Key Takeaways

India to assume Chairpersonship of the Kimberley Process from 1 January 2026.

India becomes KP Vice Chair on 25 December 2025.

Third time India has been entrusted with the KP Chair.

Kimberley Process aims to stop trade in conflict (blood) diamonds.

KPCS came into force on 1 January 2003 under a UN resolution.

KP has 60 participants, covering over 99% of global rough diamond trade.

India will focus on digital certification, traceability, transparency, and governance reforms.

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