India will assume the chairmanship of the Kimberley Process (KP) starting January 1, 2026, succeeding the United Arab Emirates.

This is also India’s third time to lead the United Nations-backed tripartite initiative, which involves governments, international diamond industry players and civil society whose aim is to prevent so-called “conflict diamonds” from entering the mainstream trade.

India, a founding participant, has played a constructive role since the KP’s inception in 2003 and through its 2026 chairmanship, will underscore its continued commitment to responsible and transparent diamond trade, according to the Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC).

India was likewise selected as KP vice chair for 2025, which took effect on December 25, before assuming chairmanship in 2026. 

During its tenure, India will focus on strengthening governance and compliance, advancing digital certification and traceability, enhancing transparency through data-driven monitoring, and building consumer trust in conflict-free diamonds.

GJEPC Chairman Kirit Bhansali said, “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.”

He added that GJEPC will work closely with the government of India and all stakeholders to support India’s high-level leadership. “We remain committed to advancing best practices, strengthening compliance and reinforcing confidence in conflict-free diamonds across global markets,” continued Bhansali.

GJEPC is eyeing to work with other governments, the international trade and civil society to secure support and cooperation for India’s governance of the KP. This will be instrumental in making the KP a stable, inclusive and effective framework that safeguards the long-term integrity of the global diamond industry.