Uzbekistan joins global effort against conflict diamonds through KPCS membership

The move, confirmed by the press office of the Ministry of Investments and Foreign Trade of Uzbekistan (MIFT), marks a significant step in the country's engagement with the international diamond market.

A delegation from Uzbekistan, including representatives from the Inspectorate for Assay Supervision under the Ministry of Economy and Finance and the "Uzbekzargarsanoati" Association, participated in the 21st plenary meeting of the Kimberley Process held in Dubai from November 12-15. During this session, Uzbekistan's application for membership was reviewed and approved. The decision came after experts from the World Diamond Council and participating countries conducted a visit to Uzbekistan in October and commended its adherence to the minimum standards of the process.

The MIFT highlighted that joining the KPCS will support local jewelry producers and safeguard their rights in the global market. Furthermore, this development is expected to facilitate the exchange of international expertise, attract investments, and integrate modern technologies into Uzbekistan's jewelry sector.

Effective from November 1, new regulations in Uzbekistan have prohibited the sale of imported jewelry without documentation proving customs duties have been paid, with exceptions for items registered before September 1. This regulation is part of a presidential decree issued in July to promote the development of the jewelry industry. Additionally, import duties on foreign jewelry have been reduced to 10% until the end of 2026. Individuals are also now allowed to export items containing up to 200 grams of silver or 65 grams of gold without declaration.

The Kimberley Process Certification Scheme encompasses 85 member states, representing 99.8% of global rough diamond production. Established to prevent the trade of diamonds from funding regional conflicts and terrorist groups, the KPCS is currently composed of nations such as the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Brazil, South Africa, Namibia, Tanzania, all European Union countries, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, China, Japan, and Indonesia, among others.