Diamond exports reach P20bn mark

Exports from Botswana which comprise both rough and polished diamonds, were at P20.8 billion in 2008 before falling to P15.2 billion in the recession year of 2009 and rebounding to P21.7 billion last year.

According to figures released by the Central Bank this week, Botswana exported diamonds worth P3.88 billion in July after selling P16.55 billion worth of the stones in the first half of the year bringing the total to P20.43 billion with five more months left before the year ends.