The Forum on KP Dialogue 2026, organized by the Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) under India’s Kimberley Process (KP) Chairmanship 2026, brought together leading voices from the global natural diamond industry at the Jio World Convention Centre, BKC, Mumbai, on May 10 2026. Centred around the “3Cs Initiative” — Credibility, Confidence and Compliance, the event focused on the evolving priorities shaping the future of the natural diamond sector.

The proceedings commenced with a welcome address by Kirit Bhansali, Chairman, GJEPC, followed by opening remarks by Suchindra Misra, KP Chair. The dialogue brought together organizations such as De Beers, ALROSA, GIA India, Signet Jewelers, Tracr, Everledger, Sarine Technologies, the Natural Diamond Council, and the World Diamond Council.

Details of the sessions

The first session, which focused on carbon-neutral natural diamonds, featured Peter Karakchiev, Head of International Relations at ALROSA. Karakchiev highlighted the increasing importance of sustainability and ESG considerations in strengthening consumer confidence in natural diamonds.

Referencing findings from a five-year scientific study conducted by ALROSA, he stated that kimberlite ore has the ability to naturally absorb and permanently store carbon dioxide. According to the company, diamonds mined in Yakutia are certified carbon-neutral, with some mining operations classified as carbon negative due to the carbon absorption properties of kimberlite tailings.

The session also explored the possibility of a future carbon-credit framework among Kimberley Process producer nations. Speakers suggested that such initiatives could support broader industry efforts towards measurable sustainability and responsible mining practices.

The second session, titled Credibility – The Power of Communication in Earning Credibility, was moderated by Feriel Zerouki of WDC, and featured Bebe Bakshi of Champagne Gem, James Doran of Pentameter Advisors, Colleen Rooney of Signet Jewelers, and Sabyasachi Ray, Executive Director, GJEPC. The panellists agreed that the natural diamond industry must communicate its socio-economic contribution and ethical value more effectively to consumers.

A recurring theme during the discussion was the absence of a centralized communication structure within the Kimberley Process framework. Speakers observed that this gap has often allowed competing narratives to shape public perception around natural diamonds. The panel called for a unified global communication strategy supported by stronger consumer-facing storytelling, and greater use of social media and traceability tools.

The third session, Confidence – Current State of Market Demand and Consumer Protection, was moderated by Russell Mehta of Rosy Blue, and included Anikesh Nandy of Titan Company Ltd., Amit Pratihari of GIA India, Mahiar Borhanjoo of De Beers, and Raluca Anghel of NDC. Discussions focused on shifting consumer expectations, particularly among younger buyers, who increasingly prioritize authenticity, provenance and transparency.

Speakers stressed the need for stronger consumer education, scientific verification and clear disclosure practices surrounding natural diamonds. Retailers noted that consumers are now asking more detailed questions regarding grading standards, certification systems and diamond origin at the point of sale.

The panellists also emphasized that while compliance and verification remain critical, emotional storytelling and rarity continue to play an equally important role in maintaining the aspirational value of natural diamonds.

The final session, Compliance – Beyond Compliance: From Traceability to Trust, moderated by Ashish Borda of Anjali Diam, examined the growing role of technology in supply chain transparency. The speakers included representatives from Tracr, Everledger, Sarine Technologies, Lexus Technomist, iTraceiT and Resolve; they discussed how blockchain, AI, optical scanning and digital passports are reshaping traceability systems across the diamond pipeline.

The panellists agreed that traceability is no longer viewed solely as a compliance requirement, but increasingly as a commercial differentiator capable of strengthening consumer trust. However, concerns were raised regarding operational costs, and the challenges faced by SMEs in adopting complex traceability systems. Industry-wide interoperability, inclusivity and shared standards were identified as critical for wider adoption.

The day concluded with remarks by Saket Kumar, Senior Advisor to the KP Chair, and Joint Secretary, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, reinforcing India’s commitment to strengthening responsible sourcing, transparency and stakeholder collaboration during its Kimberley Process Chairmanship in 2026.