Antwerp: The Diamond Technical Team of the G7 and Botswana announced in a joint statement that an Export Verification Point for rough diamonds would be established in Botswana. For the development of this G7 verification point, Botswana will receive support and expertise from the Antwerp World Diamond Centre (AWDC), which has been operating as a G7 verification and certification hub since March 1, 2024, ensuring that diamonds of Russian origin no longer gain access to G7 markets.
Earlier this year, the AWDC has already emphasized the importance of multiple export verification points and an inclusive approach, in which African diamond-producing countries are regarded as full-fledged partners in the effort to enhance transparency in the diamond industry. Today, it was confirmed that the G7 verification point in Botswana will indeed become a reality, with Antwerp’s expertise, which has been overseeing and certifying rough diamonds since March 1, playing a crucial role.
“The Belgian Diamond Office, the import and export body that implements the most rigorous physical and administrative controls, is globally recognized as the benchmark for transparency—a role we take immense pride in,” said Karen Rentmeesters, CEO of AWDC. “We are now sharing this carefully built knowledge and technical expertise with other countries like Botswana. Essentially, we are offering a blueprint that meets today’s requirements for compliance and transparency,” Rentmeesters added.
In his keynote address at the FACETS event in Antwerp, organized by the Antwerp World Diamond Centre on November 26, 2024, the president of Botswana, H.E. Duma G. Boko underscored the importance of ethical and sustainable diamond mining as a cornerstone of Botswana’s ongoing efforts to enhance transparency and accountability within the diamond industry. “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.
A comprehensive analysis of Botswana’s existing control system was conducted to identify areas where further alignment is needed with G7 system requirements. As a result, Botswana and the G7 are working together on a roadmap to make the export verification point for rough diamonds in Botswana operational as soon as possible.
