Surat Diamantaires Eye Zimbabwe Partnership Amid VP Visit

Surat | Gujarat — Anticipation is running high in the world’s largest diamond cutting and polishing hub as Zimbabwe’s Vice President, Honourable General (Retd.) Dr. C.G.D.N. Chiwenga, arrives in Surat for a two-day visit aimed at striking a diamond trade deal. The Southern Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SGCCI) is hosting the Zimbabwean delegation, which includes cabinet ministers, diplomats, and industry leaders, for high-level engagements with diamantaires, textile entrepreneurs, and exporters.

The visit is being seen as a historic step toward strengthening diamond trade ties between Gujarat and Zimbabwe, a country rich in mineral wealth but seeking global partnerships for sustainable growth. The Zimbabwean delegation will tour Shri Hare Krishna Export’s diamond facility at Bhatpore, a visit that industry insiders say could pave the way for long-term trade collaborations.

Zimbabwe Diamonds: Legal and Certified Under Kimberley Process

Much of the global spotlight is on Zimbabwe’s diamonds – particularly those from the Marange fields, which once faced restrictions. In 2009, the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme (KPCS) banned Zimbabwean diamonds over alleged human rights violations. However, the ban was lifted in 2013, and since then Zimbabwe’s diamonds have been legally tradable, provided they comply with KPCS standards.

“Zimbabwean rough is certified under the Kimberley Process and is suitable for Surat’s diamond industry. This visit will help us directly access Zimbabwe’s resources while ensuring compliance with international trade norms,” said SGCCI president Nikhil Madrasi.

Industry data shows that India imported over $2 billion worth of diamonds in April 2024 alone, with Zimbabwe being among the sources. Surat diamantaires see Zimbabwe as a reliable alternative amid shifting global trade dynamics, particularly after G7 and EU bans on Russian-origin diamonds in 2024.

US, G7, and EU Stand on Zimbabwean Diamonds

Contrary to common misconceptions, Zimbabwean diamonds are not under any fresh sanctions by the US, G7, or EU until 2025. The United States, which had imposed restrictions in 2003, eased its stance after 2013. Currently, no comprehensive embargo exists, although some targeted sanctions remain on individuals and entities.

The European Union lifted its diamond ban in 2013, while the G7 nations continue to follow the Kimberley Process framework. Their current focus is largely on Russian-origin diamonds due to geopolitical tensions.

“This is the right time for India and Zimbabwe to come together,” said Zimbabwean Commerce and Industry Minister Raj Modi, who hails originally from Rajpipla in Gujarat. “Zimbabwe’s certified diamonds, when combined with Surat’s cutting and polishing expertise, can create a win-win partnership for both nations.”

Opportunities Beyond Diamonds

While diamonds are the central attraction, the Zimbabwean Vice President’s visit is expected to spark collaborations in textiles, agriculture, renewable energy, and pharmaceuticals. The delegation’s itinerary includes visits to Sumul Dairy, Aishwarya Dyeing Mills, and Shri Ramakrishna Export, alongside discussions with Veer Narmad South Gujarat University for academic partnerships.

“Zimbabwe is rich in natural resources, while Gujarat has expertise in processing and global trade networks. This synergy can open doors for collaborations not only in diamonds but also in agriculture and infrastructure,” an SGCCI official stated.