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A ‘tarrific’ opportunity for Botswana

Friday, September 05, 2025 | 370 Views |

Gleaming: Minerals and Energy minister, Bogolo Kenewendo, admires a local diamond
during a visit to the Gemological Institute of America’s local branch recently PIC: MBONGENI MGUNI

The global diamond world is scrambling to rearrange its traditional cutting and polishing channels amidst the disruption brought by U.S tariffs and Botswana could inadvertently become the biggest winner.

India, which accounts for 90% of cutting and polishing activities in the industry, presently has one of the highest tariffs for entry to the US at 50%, while another major centre China, has equally been hit at about 30%.

Other diamond centres such as Belgium, the United Arab Emirates and Israel, all have a range of tariffs from 17% down to 10%, while Botswana is set at 15%.

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A ‘tarrific’ opportunity for Botswana

The global diamond world is scrambling to rearrange its traditional cutting and polishing channels amidst the disruption brought by U.S tariffs and Botswana could inadvertently become the biggest winner.

Human rights are sacred

Bakgatla Ba Kgafela celebrate as Kgosi Kgafela’s charges are dropped

First Lady's office hosts second annual thanks giving ceremony

PSLE performance on upward trend

Bona Life tee-off Maruapula Loxion Golf journey

Cops arrest young man, seize dagga in Metsimotlhabe

Second Mogoditshane rape attack in two weeks

Suspected suicide behind Sir Seretse Khama Barracks

Human rights are sacred