Paul Rowley, Executive Vice President, Diamond Trading, De Beers Group, met the GJEPC leadership at the Bharat Diamond Bourse in Mumbai on 28 November. Rowley was joined by Sean Lin, VP Sales, De Beers Group, and Sunil Dias, Diamond Consultant, De Beers.
The De Beers officials were received by GJEPC’s leadership including Kirit Bhansali, Chairman; Shaunak Parikh, Vice Chairman; Anoop Mehta, Convener – Diamond Panel; Ashish Borda, Convener – PMBD; Anil Virani, Convener – A&F; Russell Mehta, Member – Diamond Panel; Mital Doshi, Convener – BITC; Bharat Ghori, Member – Diamond Panel; Ajesh Mehta, former Convener – Diamond Panel; and Ashish Mehta, Partner, Kantilal Chhotalal, among others.
Rowley outlined the current market pressures, noting that smaller goods are under strain even as global rough production has dropped sharply. He said De Beers has reduced output, revised distribution and stepped up marketing to strengthen natural diamond positioning.
GJEPC highlighted the profitability challenges facing Indian manufacturers. Rowley stressed that natural diamond demand remains stable and that today’s difficulties stem from destocking, weaker Chinese retail activity, and earlier over-purchasing.
The discussion also focused on the need for stronger global marketing. The Council reiterated India’s sustained funding commitment. Both sides agreed that with destocking largely completed and supply tightening, the market is gradually moving toward balance.