Mmegi

Diamond exports down 50% by Q3

Shiny stones: Diamonds have been in a prolonged slump since the third quarter of last year PIC: MORERI SEJAKGOMO
Shiny stones: Diamonds have been in a prolonged slump since the third quarter of last year PIC: MORERI SEJAKGOMO

Sales of the country’s primary commodity, diamonds, fell by 50% in the 10 months to October this year, underlining the depth of the downturn facing the gemstones and the broader economy.

Figures released by the Bank of Botswana recently indicate that between January and October, Debswana sold P22.7 billion in rough diamonds, compared to P45.2 billion over the corresponding period in 2023.

Debswana is the country’s primary producer of diamonds, accounting for more than 95% of annual output. Under the current agreement between its shareholders, De Beers and government, Debswana sells 75% of its annual output to the diamond giant and the balance to the state-owned diamond trader, Okavango Diamond Company.

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