India is set to assume the Chairpersonship of the Kimberley Process (KP) from 1 January 2026. This marks a significant milestone in its global economic engagement. It also highlights its diplomatic engagement. The decision occurred at the Kimberley Process Plenary. It reaffirms India’s growing stature as a responsible leader in ethical trade. It also emphasizes transparency and sustainable sourcing. This will be the third time India has been entrusted with the leadership of this important international mechanism.
About the Kimberley Process
The Kimberley Process is a tripartite international initiative involving:
- Governments
- The global diamond industry
- Civil society organisations
Its primary objective is to prevent the trade in conflict diamonds, also known as blood diamonds.
Conflict diamonds are rough diamonds used by rebel groups or their allies. These groups use them to finance armed conflicts. Their goal is to undermine legitimate governments, as recognised under UN Security Council resolutions.
Kimberley Process Certification Scheme (KPCS)
The Kimberley Process Certification Scheme (KPCS):
- Was established pursuant to a UN resolution
- Came into force on 1 January 2003
- Mandates that international trade in rough diamonds can occur only between KP participants
- Requires tamper-proof certificates guaranteeing diamonds are conflict-free
Over time, KPCS has evolved into the most comprehensive global framework regulating the rough diamond trade.
India’s Role and Timeline
- 25 December 2025: India will assume the role of Vice Chair
- 1 January 2026: India will formally take over as Chairperson
This phased transition ensures continuity in leadership and policy direction.
Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal welcomed the decision. He stated that India’s selection reflects global trust. The government is committed to integrity, transparency, and rule-based international trade.
Global Significance of the Kimberley Process
- The Kimberley Process currently has 60 participants
- The European Union and its member states are counted as a single participant
- KP members together account for over 99% of global rough diamond trade
By curbing the flow of conflict diamonds, the KP has played a critical role in:
- Reducing violence in conflict-prone regions, particularly in Africa
- Promoting ethical practices across the global diamond industry
India’s Key Focus Areas as Chair (2026)
During its tenure as Vice Chair (2025) and Chair (2026), India will prioritise:
- 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, effective, and future-ready
These priorities align closely with India’s broader emphasis on technology-driven governance and responsible global leadership.
Exam-Oriented Facts
- Kimberley Process began in 2003
- Prevents trade in conflict (blood) diamonds
- Covers 99% of global rough diamond trade
- India to chair KP for the third time in 2026
- KPCS requires tamper-proof certification for diamond trade
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