Gemfields Group Limited, a leading coloured gemstone miner, has welcomed the Zambian government’s decision to suspend the 15% export duty on precious gemstones and metals, a move set to benefit the country’s emerald industry significantly.
The suspension, was issued by Zambia’s Minister of Finance, Dr Situmbeko Musokotwane, and takes immediate effect. As a result, the duty will no longer apply to emeralds mined by Kagem Mining Limited, which is 75% owned by Gemfields and 25% by Zambia’s Industrial Development Corporation.
Sean Gilbertson, CEO of Gemfields, praised the Zambian government’s decision, stating: “We express our sincere thanks to President Hakainde Hichilema’s government for their prompt and impressive action in addressing the 15% export duty on precious gemstones. The Zambian emerald sector has delivered phenomenal growth over the last 16 years and is today – by a significant margin – the world’s largest emerald exporter. The government’s collaborative approach and decisive action are clear demonstrations of its intent to deliver growth and jobs for Zambia, and this step puts our industry back on track to continue that trajectory.”