A senior diplomatic delegation from South Africa visited the Bharat Diamond Bourse (BDB) on April 29, 2026, to explore opportunities for strengthening bilateral cooperation in the diamond sector. The delegation was led by Anil Sooklal, High Commissioner of South Africa to India, and included Gideon Labane along with senior officials from the Consulate. They were received by BDB President Anoop Mehta, Vice President Mehul Shah, and committee members.

South Africa remains a key source of rough diamonds in the global supply chain. Discussions during the visit focused on enhancing trade partnerships, ensuring stability in rough supply, and strengthening institutional ties between the two countries’ diamond industries. The delegation toured the Bourse premises, reviewing its infrastructure and secure trading systems. Both sides explored potential areas of collaboration, including facilitating direct supply channels and expanding engagement between Indian buyers and South African producers.

Highlighting longstanding bilateral relations, Mehul Shah noted that India and South Africa share over 200 years of association. He requested faster visa processing with longer validity for BDB members and employees to improve ease of doing business. “Such a step will enable greater ease in doing business and smoother rough diamond supply with S.A. companies,” he said.

Shah also proposed that South African stakeholders consider showcasing rough diamonds at the India Diamond Trading Company (IDTC) within the Bourse, enabling wider access for MSMEs to procure directly from mining sources. The visit follows recent cultural engagements between the two countries, reinforcing broader diplomatic and trade relations.