Mumbai: India began the Kimberley Process Intersessional Meeting 2026 in Mumbai on May 11 under its Chairship. The meeting will continue until May 14, 2026. Representatives from member countries, observers and industry groups are attending the event.
The discussions focus on monitoring, compliance and certification under the Kimberley Process framework. Participants are reviewing implementation measures and statistical systems. They are also examining ways to strengthen transparency in the global diamond trade.
KP Chair 2026 Shri Suchindra Misra addressed the opening session. He said the Kimberley Process supports peace and protects livelihoods in producing nations. He stressed stronger cooperation among members. Moreover, he called for continued trust in the certification system.
The Chair highlighted that natural diamonds remain part of a sustainable value chain. He noted that the certification mechanism must stay effective in a changing global environment. Therefore, participants will review compliance tools and monitoring practices during the sessions.
Kimberley Process focuses on compliance and credibility
The meeting agenda includes Working Group discussions. These groups will examine artisanal mining, alluvial production and trade statistics. They will also assess compliance mechanisms under the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme.
India’s Chairship theme for 2026 centres on the 3Cs: credibility, compliance and consumer confidence. Officials said the theme aims to strengthen trust in responsibly sourced natural diamonds. In addition, the programme encourages dialogue among governments, industry and civil society.
The Kimberley Process Certification Scheme was established under United Nations General Assembly Resolution 55/56. It aims to prevent conflict diamonds from entering legitimate trade. Currently, 60 Participants represent 86 countries. The European Union participates as a single bloc.
Senior officials from the Department of Commerce attended the meeting. Representatives from industry bodies and civil society groups also participated. Together, they will exchange views on emerging challenges. Consequently, the forum seeks collaborative solutions for sustainable diamond trade.
India assumed the Kimberley Process Chairship on January 1, 2026. It reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and responsible sourcing. As a major diamond cutting and polishing centre, India continues to support global certification standards.
The intersessional meeting will conclude on May 14 after detailed deliberations.
