Belgian Prime Minister H.E. Bart De Wever made a historic first visit to Bharat Diamond Bourse (BDB) in Mumbai, marking a significant new milestone in the over 100-year partnership between the diamond industries of India and Belgium. The visit brought renewed focus to the strong commercial and industry ties between the two countries, particularly following the signing of the Indo-EU Free Trade Agreement, which has opened new opportunities for deeper collaboration in the diamond and jewellery sectors. The meeting also reaffirmed a shared commitment to strengthening the integrity, transparency, confidence and sustainable growth of the global diamond trade.
Quick Summary
- Belgian Prime Minister H.E. Bart De Wever made his first visit to Bharat Diamond Bourse in Mumbai.
- The visit marks a historic milestone in the over 100-year partnership between India and Belgium’s diamond industries.
- The interaction follows the signing of the Indo-EU Free Trade Agreement.
- India and Belgium reaffirmed their commitment to sustainable growth, transparency and integrity in the diamond trade.
- India–Belgium gems and jewellery trade was around US$3.5 billion in 2025-26.
- The visit included interactions with BDB, GJEPC, Mumbai Diamond Merchants Association and senior diamantaires.
A Historic Milestone for India-Belgium Diamond Relations
Mumbai, September 4, 2026: Bharat Diamond Bourse (BDB), on behalf of the entire Indian diamond industry, was honoured to welcome H.E. Mr. Bart De Wever, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Belgium and his official delegation on their visit to the Bourse at BKC, Mumbai, today. It marked a historic new milestone in the over 100-year partnership between the diamond industries of the two countries, being the first time that the Head of the Belgian government has visited the largest operational diamond bourse in the world.
Indo-EU FTA Opens New Opportunities
The visit took on added significance as it came soon after the signing of the Indo-EU Free Trade Agreement, which has paved the way for deepening ties and collaboration between the two countries, especially in the diamond and jewellery sectors.
A New Chapter in the Diamond Value Chain
Today’s interaction between these two centres, each with its own unique position in the diamond value chain, marks the beginning of a new chapter, industry leaders said. Both sides renewed their commitment to collaborate and share responsibility in reinforcing the integrity of the industry, strengthening confidence in the diamond trade and ensuring that it continues to grow sustainably for the generations ahead.
India-Belgium Bonds Beyond Trade
Emphasising the close bonds between India and Belgium, Mr Anoop Mehta, President BDB, said the two countries shared much more than a trading partnership as many Indian diamantaires, particularly from Gujarat, have made Antwerp their home. He added that when the BDB was being planned, a team visited Antwerp and drew lessons and inspiration that guided them in creating a truly international diamond trading centre in Mumbai.
Global Leadership from Antwerp
Further, he added, Mr Mehul Shah, Vice President of BDB is currently the President of the World Federation of Diamond Bourses, the global apex body of the trade since 1947 with its headquarters in Antwerp.
A Shared Vision for a Sustainable Diamond Trade
Looking forward, Mr Mehta said, “The world is changing rapidly, and our industry must adapt in partnership. Our shared objective should be to create a diamond trade that is not only prosperous, but also fair, transparent and sustainable.”
India’s Growing Role in International Trade
Mr Kirit Bhansali, Chairman, GJEPC, said that the industry was proud to welcome the Prime Minister of Belgium at a time when India’s leadership role in international trade forums is helping shape the future of the industry.
India-Belgium Gems and Jewellery Trade
Reaffirming a shared commitment to mutual prosperity, Mr Bhansali stated that India–Belgium trade in gems and jewellery was around US$3.5 billion in 2025-26, and that the journey of many of the millions of diamonds cut and polished in India passes through Antwerp. “These are not merely figures. They represent businesses, livelihoods, and over five million direct and indirect jobs supporting families across India — all woven into this global value chain,” he added.
Strengthening the Economic Partnership
Describing the visit as the beginning of a “stronger chapter in our shared economic journey”, Mr Bhansali stressed that it is an opportunity for both nations to strengthen the relationship in diamonds and explore new frontiers built on commerce, trust and shared opportunity.
Belgium Prime Minister Highlights Diamond Heritage
Addressing a packed hall comprising the who’s who of the diamond industry, Belgian PM H.E. Mr Bart de Wever described his visit to BDB in Mumbai as long overdue, because, “India was the cradle where the diamond industry began centuries ago, and Antwerp too has been a key trading centre for the industry since the 15th century.”
Mumbai and Antwerp as Financial Capitals
Mr Wever praised the role that both Mumbai and Antwerp play as the financial capitals of their countries, explaining that these cities are where the “money is made”. He said the Belgian government welcomed the recent Indo-EU FTA and believed it would boost trade by lowering costs and duties, digitizing and simplifying procedures and aiding interaction.
A Century of Unbreakable Diamond Ties
“It is fitting that diamond industry provides a foundation for India-Belgium collaboration, because our ties are like ‘adamas’, the ancient Greek name for a diamond which means unbreakable. Our trade runs in two directions and brings advantages to both partners, so it will definitely thrive for at least another 100 years,” Mr Wever concluded.
Visit to GJEPC and BDB Facilities
The PM and his delegation also visited different locations within the bourse complex, including the offices of The Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council, the official apex body of India’s G&J export industry that has over 11,000 exporter members spread across the country and spearheads interaction with the government as well as developing existing and new export markets.
Interaction with Mumbai Diamond Merchants Association
Another highlight was the interaction with the Mumbai Diamond Merchants Association, the oldest diamond trade organisation in the city which manages the massive 20,000 sq ft diamond trading hall in BDB on behalf of its 14,500 members, mainly smaller entrepreneurs and individual traders, who play a crucial role in the business.
Industry Leaders and Senior Diamantaires
The visit concluded with an interactive session with committee members of GJEPC and BDB as well as a select number of senior diamantaires representing the top exporting companies and those with a significant presence in Belgium.
About Bharat Diamond Bourse
The Bharat Diamond Bourse (BDB) is one of the world’s largest diamond trading centres and a key hub for India’s global diamond trade. Located at Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC), Mumbai, BDB brings together leading diamond manufacturers, traders, importers, exporters and industry service providers under one roof, supported by world-class infrastructure and secure business facilities.
BDB’s Role in Global Diamond Trade
BDB plays a pivotal role in strengthening India’s position as a global diamond trading and manufacturing hub. With its integrated ecosystem, including customs, banking, security and other essential services, BDB facilitates seamless domestic and international trade and serves as a vital platform connecting India’s diamond industry with markets worldwide.
FAQs
Why did Belgian Prime Minister H.E. Bart De Wever visit Bharat Diamond Bourse?
The visit marked a historic milestone in the over 100-year partnership between the diamond industries of India and Belgium and focused on strengthening collaboration and sustainable growth.
What was significant about the visit?
It was the first time the Head of the Belgian government visited Bharat Diamond Bourse, described in the release as the largest operational diamond bourse in the world.
How does the Indo-EU FTA relate to the visit?
The release states that the recently signed Indo-EU Free Trade Agreement has paved the way for deeper ties and collaboration, particularly in the diamond and jewellery sectors.
What is the India-Belgium gems and jewellery trade value mentioned?
The release states that India–Belgium trade in gems and jewellery was around US$3.5 billion in 2025-26.
What organisations did the Belgian delegation interact with?
The delegation visited GJEPC and interacted with the Mumbai Diamond Merchants Association, GJEPC and BDB committee members, and senior diamantaires.
What is Bharat Diamond Bourse?
BDB is a major diamond trading centre in Mumbai’s Bandra Kurla Complex, bringing together diamond manufacturers, traders, importers, exporters and industry service providers.
Source: SVAR Media Network
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