The World Diamond Council (WDC) announced its support for a consensus reached by member states of the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme (KPCS), in which an intensive, on-the-ground inspection programme will be immediately implemented to monitor and audit the export of diamonds from Zimbabwe’s Marange province. The Zimbabwean authorities agreed upon 'indications of significant non-compliance,' and have pledged to work with Kimberley Process authorities. Also, the WDC will not yield in expressing its deep concern about diamonds originating from Marange.

The decision agreed by the KP member states will involve rigorous and comprehensive scrutiny over the next 12 months. “The ability of Zimbabwe to harness its natural resources, including diamonds, for the benefit of its people is our primary concern,” said Eli Izhakoff, Chairman of the WDC. “This is a challenging situation, but one in which determined and focused engagement provides the best chances for a successful outcome.”

"The diamond industry will be watching closely, along with the rest of the world, during the next 12 months to ensure that this opportunity is not squandered," Mr. Izhakoff added. "This is a complicated and challenging issue, meaning there can be no perfect solution. However, this working plan represents robust and sincere action by the Kimberley Process to achieve the common objectives held by all of its participants."

The Kimberley Process was incorporated in 2003 to eliminate the use of conflict diamonds in the global diamond trade. Today, it ensures that more than 99 percent of the global production of rough diamonds is certified to come from conflict-free sources.