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De Beers’ sales dip

Heart of the economy: Jwaneng Mine is the world's most valuable diamond mine PIC: MORERI SEJAKGOMO
Heart of the economy: Jwaneng Mine is the world's most valuable diamond mine PIC: MORERI SEJAKGOMO

De Beers’ sales in the group’s latest auction of the year, came in at a provisional $370 million, more than 42% down year-on-year and reflecting the challenging period rough diamonds are enduring. By comparison, sales at the previous auction, the sixth of the year, were measured at $411 million.

Group CEO, Al Cook said the prevailing economic environment was leading to softer end-client demand for diamond jewellery in key consumer markets. He added that the summer period (in the US) was associated with traditionally lower levels of midstream trading, while sightholders continued to take a prudent approach to their purchasing.

The diamond giant has noted headwinds in sales of rough this year, as global economic uncertainties have resulted in high inventories in the midstream, which built up from the historically high sales recorded last year.


Editor's Comment
Micro-procurement maze demands urgent reform

Whilst celebrating milestones in inclusivity, with notably P5 billion awarded to vulnerable groups, the report sounds a 'siren' on a dangerous and growing trend: the ballooning use of micro-procurement. That this method, designed for small-scale, efficient purchases, now accounts for a staggering 25% (P8 billion) of total procurement value is not a sign of agility, but a 'red flag'. The PPRA’s warning is unequivocal and must be...

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