Botswana Expands Diamond Trade Partnerships

Botswana has announced new diamond trade partnerships. This development is aimed at increasing revenue from the nation’s mining sector and expanding access to international markets, government officials said.

Botswana was admitted to the World Federation of Diamond Bourses (WFDB) on May 19, 2026, a move described by WFDB President Yoram Dvash as “a necessary partnership” to connect diamond producers with international trading circuits. The country also signed six bilateral agreements with Rwanda on May 6, covering double taxation avoidance, visa abolition, health, and economic trade and investment.

Authorities said the partnerships are expected to create jobs and support local businesses connected to the mining industry. Botswana remains one of the world’s leading diamond producers, with the sector contributing a significant share of national revenue and export earnings.

Minister of Minerals and Energy Bogolo Kenewendo said Botswana aims to close the gap between being a diamond-producing nation and a global trading centre by building stronger trading ecosystems and value chains. She also called for increasing local diamond processing to reduce dependence on raw mineral exports, arguing that diamonds should leave Botswana as brands, craftsmanship and jobs, not merely as rough stones.

Industry officials said demand for ethically sourced diamonds continued to grow in international markets despite economic pressures affecting the global luxury goods sector. Botswana is positioning its stones as “development diamonds” that directly support jobs, economic growth and social development.

The diamond industry remains central to Botswana’s economy, supporting infrastructure development, public services and employment opportunities across the country.

SOURCE: Reuters