AWDC welcomes the measures outlined in the G7’s 16th Sanctions Package against Russia. The postponement of the mandatory traceability mechanism for diamonds to January 1, 2026, is an important step, giving diamond companies the necessary time to prepare for its implementation. However, we remain concerned about the uniform enforcement of these measures and once again urge the G7 to ensure a level playing field across all participating countries.
The sanctions package includes two key decisions that directly impact the diamond sector. First, diamond traders importing rough diamonds of mixed origin must now present a Kimberley Process certificate listing all countries of origin. Second, the deadline for companies to provide traceability-based information upon import has been postponed to January 1, 2026. This mechanism will link non-Russian, G7-certified rough diamonds to the polished diamonds derived from them. Both measures are intended to enhance transparency across the industry.
Postponement Allows for Thorough Preparation
We are pleased that the intensive and constructive discussions led by AWDC and the Belgian government have resulted in the G7 postponing the deadline for implementing a traceability mechanism for diamonds. However, there is still significant uncertainty about how the system will function and be governed, and the G7 must provide further clarity on these aspects.
By pushing the deadline back ten months—from the original date of March 1, 2025—diamond companies now have the necessary time to prepare for integration into their daily operations. This is especially important for smaller businesses, which make up more than half of the 1,470 active diamond companies in Antwerp and face the greatest challenges in adapting. AWDC will continue to actively support them throughout this process.
Level Playing Field Within the G7 Is Crucial for Effectiveness
While the postponement of the mandatory traceability mechanism is a positive step, AWDC remains concerned about the overall effectiveness of these measures. Russia continues to export large volumes of diamonds to non-G7 countries, allowing them to enter the polished diamond market. To avoid putting the European diamond sector at a disadvantage, it is essential to ensure a level playing field within the G7. Measures must be applied and enforced consistently across all member states, particularly in key consumer markets such as the United States.
If other G7 countries do not fully comply with their obligations, the European Union must have the flexibility to adjust its approach to prevent unfair disadvantages for the European diamond and jewelry industry. AWDC calls for regular evaluations of the sanctions' effectiveness and their actual impact on European trade. Strengthening collaboration with non-G7 countries remains equally important, with a particular focus on establishing export verification points in African diamond-producing nations.
