India to Lead Kimberley Process in 2026, Ending Leadership Uncertainty
India is set to take the helm of the Kimberley Process in 2026, concluding a period of uncertainty surrounding the organization’s leadership. This will mark the third time India has chaired the initiative that regulates international trade in rough diamonds.
The selection was made by consensus among nations involved in the Kimberley Process in December, as noted by the Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC). India is one of the founding members of this initiative.
Ghana has been chosen as the vice chair for 2026 and is expected to take over as chair in 2027. Kirit Bhansali, the chairman of GJEPC, emphasized India’s critical role in the global diamond market. He stated, “India’s selection reflects the international community’s trust in its principled and inclusive approach to enhancing the global diamond trade.”
Bhansali also assured that the GJEPC will collaborate with the Indian government and other key stakeholders to support this leadership, promote best practices, ensure compliance, and maintain confidence in conflict-free diamonds worldwide.
The Kimberley Process has faced difficulties in establishing its leadership after the United Arab Emirates served as chair in 2024 and continued as custodian chair in 2025. Initially, Thailand was appointed as vice chair for 2025 but later stepped back, leaving a gap in leadership.
Tensions around the leadership issue have been compounded by disagreements over a new definition of “conflict diamonds.” Although Belarus offered to take part, Western nations declined its bid due to its ties with Russia, and Israel opposed Qatar’s nomination. The Kimberley Process requires unanimous consent for policy decisions, making consensus challenging.
This transition is seen not just as a leadership change, but as a vital step in reinforcing the integrity of the diamond trade globally.
