In his address upon taking over the presidency of the World Diamond Council, Ronnie Vanderlinden outlined a focused vision for the future of the natural diamond trade. At a time when the sector faces increasing pressure, changing consumer perceptions, and rising competition, Vanderlinden’s speech emphasised the need for stronger industry alignment, transparency, and renewed confidence in natural diamonds.
Quick Summary
- The speech outlines the new WDC President’s vision for the natural diamond industry.
- Transparency, traceability, and disclosure remain central priorities.
- Kimberley Process reform continues to be a major focus area.
- Industry-wide alignment and unified messaging are seen as critical.
- The address highlights the importance of producing countries and local communities.
- The WDC aims to strengthen confidence in natural diamonds globally.
Speech by the President of the World Diamond Council
Taking on the Presidency at a Critical Time
I take on the presidency of the World Diamond Council at a time when this industry is under real pressure, and at a moment when our work at the World Diamond Council matters more than ever.
Recognising Previous Leadership and Industry Reform
Before looking forward, however, it is important to recognise what has been built by those who came before me.
Feriel Zerouki led this organisation through a tough time where the industry was forced to face difficult questions. She put the reform of the Kimberley Process firmly on the agenda, moved the conversation on the conflict diamond definition to a place where it could no longer be avoided, and strengthened the focus on transparency, traceability and disclosure. She also made sure that the voices of producing countries were heard clearly and consistently. That work matters, and it gives us a strong foundation we can build on.
The Role of the World Diamond Council
My role is clear. The World Diamond Council must be a champion for the natural diamond trade.
Building Confidence in Natural Diamonds
Everything we do comes back to a simple test. Does our work help build confidence in natural diamonds and help the trade sell them? If not, it is not a priority.
Navigating a Competitive Market
We are operating in a more complex and competitive market than we have seen in recent years. Demand for natural diamonds is under pressure. Too many different messages are reaching the market. At the same time, new competition has changed how natural diamonds are positioned and understood. This is the reality we have to deal with.
The Need for Industry Alignment
The response to that reality is alignment.
Speaking with One Voice
First, we need to speak with one voice for natural diamonds. A clear and consistent message is essential if we are going to cut through the noise. That means aligning behind a simple way of explaining what natural diamonds are and why they matter.
Demonstrating the Value of Natural Diamonds
Second, we need to show what we mean, not simply say it. The case for natural diamonds is strong, but it has to be demonstrated. Where natural diamonds come from, how they move through the pipeline, and what they do in the countries and communities where they are produced is the evidence we need to show. Jobs, infrastructure and economic development are not abstract ideas. They are the reality of this industry, and they are central to maintaining confidence in our trade.
Clearing Obstacles for the Trade
Third, we need to clear a path for the trade. The role of the WDC is to remove the obstacles that make life harder for the natural diamond trade. That means identifying the real challenges faced by our members, cutting through noise, and making sure that what we do has a direct impact.
The Importance of the Kimberley Process
The Kimberley Process is central to that effort and its purpose is clear. The KP exists to support confidence in natural diamonds. Keeping it focused on that purpose is critical to its relevance. We also need to continue the work on the conflict diamond definition, and to do so in a way that strengthens credibility while supporting the trade.
Measuring Success Through Trade Impact
This presidency will be judged in a very simple way. Not by what we say in meetings, but by what happens in the trade.
Confidence at the Point of Sale
When someone is sitting with a customer and explaining a natural diamond, they should be able to do it with clarity and confidence. That is the standard. Because that is where this is won or lost.
The Industry’s Core Responsibility
If we are not helping sell natural diamonds in a meaningful way, we are not doing our job
FAQ
What is the Kimberley Process?
The Kimberley Process is an international certification initiative aimed at preventing conflict diamonds from entering the global diamond supply chain.
Who spoke at the closing session in Mumbai?
World Diamond Council President Ronnie VanderLinden delivered the closing remarks during the final Plenary session.
What major issue was discussed during the meeting?
One of the major issues discussed was the funding challenge facing the Kimberley Process Secretariat.
What reforms did Ronnie VanderLinden call for?
He called for continued reform of the Kimberley Process definition of conflict diamonds to better reflect present-day realities.
What was India’s “3Cs” vision highlighted during the meeting?
India’s chairmanship emphasized the principles of Confidence, Credibility and Compliance.
Who attended the Kimberley Process Intersessional Meeting?
Representatives from governments, industry, and civil society organizations from around the world attended the meeting.
Source: SVAR Media Network
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