Uzbekistan has officially been granted the status of a participant in the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme (KPCS), a global initiative aimed at curbing the trade in conflict diamonds, also known as "blood diamonds," as it was announcement by the press service of the Ministry of Investments, Industry, and Trade (MIIT) of Uzbekistan.
The decision was made during the 21st plenary meeting of the Kimberley Process, which was held in Dubai from November 12 to 15. A delegation from Uzbekistan, consisting of representatives from the MIIT, the Assay Control Inspectorate under the Ministry of Economy and Finance, and the Uzbekzargarsanoati Association, attended the meeting and presented the country’s application for membership. The application was carefully reviewed and subsequently approved by the meeting participants, marking Uzbekistan’s official inclusion in the Kimberley Process.
The Kimberley Process and Its Importance
The Kimberley Process was established in 2003 in response to concerns about the role of diamonds in financing armed conflict and human rights abuses in certain regions. The certification scheme aims to prevent the trade in rough diamonds that fund violent groups or regional instability, ensuring that diamonds sold internationally are not linked to such activities. KPCS currently includes 85 countries, representing 99.8% of the world’s rough diamond production.
The certification process includes measures to ensure transparency in the diamond supply chain, including requirements for countries to verify the origin of diamonds and to implement export controls. The goal is to prevent diamonds mined in conflict zones from entering the global market, thereby reducing the financing of wars and terrorism through the sale of these gems.
Uzbekistan’s Progress and Fulfillment of Requirements
Uzbekistan's application to join the Kimberley Process was met with high praise. Experts from the World Diamond Council and representatives from countries involved in the Kimberley Process visited Uzbekistan in October to assess the country's compliance with the minimum requirements for membership. Their evaluation of Uzbekistan’s systems and procedures was positive, as they acknowledged the country’s readiness to adhere to the Kimberley Process guidelines.
MIIT emphasized that Uzbekistan’s participation in the Kimberley Process would benefit the local jewelry industry. By joining the scheme, Uzbekistan aims to protect the rights of its jewelry manufacturers and ensure their competitiveness in the international market.
Uzbekistan’s entry into the Kimberley Process comes at a time of reform in its jewelry industry. Since November 1, 2024, Uzbekistan has implemented a new regulation that bans the sale of imported jewelry without proper documentation confirming the payment of customs duties. This regulation is part of a broader presidential decree issued in July 2024 aimed at developing the country’s jewelry industry.
At the same time, customs duties on imported jewelry have been reduced to 10% until the end of 2026, providing further incentives for local businesses to invest in and expand their operations. This move is expected to lower the cost of imported materials, benefiting jewelry producers who rely on foreign raw materials to craft their products. Additionally, Uzbekistan has introduced a policy allowing individuals to export up to 200 grams of silver or 65 grams of gold without the need for a declaration, simplifying the process for personal exports and encouraging international trade.
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