Kirit Bhansali, Chairman, GJEPC, has welcomed the development, saying that India’s selection reflects the international community’s trust in the Indian Government’s principled and inclusive approach of strengthening global diamond trade
New Delhi: India has been selected to assume the Chairpersonship of the Kimberley Process (KP) from January 1, 2026, following a decision taken at the Kimberley Process Plenary. The Kimberley Process is a tripartite initiative that brings together governments, the international diamond industry and civil society. Its objective is to prevent the trade in conflict diamonds, defined as rough diamonds used by rebel groups or their allies to finance conflicts aimed at undermining legitimate governments, as outlined in United Nations Security Council resolutions.
Prior to assuming the Chair, India took over as Vice Chair of the Kimberley Process from December 25, 2025. This marks the third occasion on which India has been entrusted with the Chairpersonship of the Kimberley Process, reflecting its continued engagement with the framework.
Welcoming the decision, Minister of Commerce and Industry, Piyush Goyal, stated that India’s selection reflects global trust in the Modi government’s commitment to promoting integrity and transparency in international trade.
The Kimberley Process Certification Scheme (KPCS) was established pursuant to a United Nations resolution and came into effect on January 1, 2003. Since its inception, the scheme has functioned as a mechanism to curb the trade in conflict diamonds. At present, the Kimberley Process has 60 participants, with the European Union and its member states represented as a single participant. Collectively, these participants account for more than 99% of global rough diamond trade, positioning the KP as a key international framework governing this sector.
Commenting on the development, Kirit Bhansali, Chairman, GJEPC, said, “GJEPC welcomes India’s selection of the Kimberley Process Chair role for the year 2026. India’s selection reflects the international community’s trust in the Indian Government’s principled and inclusive approach of strengthening global diamond trade through efficient governance of the Kimberley Process.”
India’s Chairpersonship comes at a time when discussions around sourcing, governance and accountability remain central to the diamond trade. During its tenure, India will focus on strengthening governance and compliance, advancing digital certification and traceability systems, enhancing transparency through data-based monitoring, and building consumer trust in conflict-free diamonds.
As Vice Chair in 2025 and Chair in 2026, India will work with all participants and observers to reinforce confidence in the Kimberley Process, ensure rule-based compliance and support its credibility. These efforts will align with the core objectives of the Kimberley Process while addressing evolving global expectations, with the aim of contributing to a more inclusive and effective multilateral framework.
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