“There are currently 14 operational mines in Angola, and the total volume of diamond production in 2019 was 9.086 million carats, valued at US $ 1,263 million. One of the main objectives of the Angolan Diamond Exchange is to concentrate this huge flow of diamonds under the same roof, ”says the Minister of Mineral Resources, Oil and Gas, Diamantino Azevedo.
In a statement sent to VerAngola, the official explained that it is the Government's understanding that part of the diamonds may be sold through auctions / tenders. "Sodiam is listening to providers of this type of service in order to maximize the result of our production and obtain the best possible results," he added.
The initiative, coordinated by Sodiam and the Consultant and Technical Coordinator for the Diamond Exchange, Peter Meeus, aroused the interest of world-renowned companies. “We received proposals of interest from Bonas-Couzyn NV, First Element DTC, I-Henning & CO, Koin International DMCC and Trans Atlantic Gem Sales DMCC and we are currently analyzing which services are best suited to the needs of the Angolan diamond industry, according to the legislation in force in the country, ”said the coordinator.
The statement also states that, in addition, Sodiam is analyzing the collaboration with acidification service providers for the Diamond Exchange. Among the candidates are Elmyr Services BVBA and Quality Boiling BVBA. “The two companies, Elmyr and Charlotte, presented their proposals of interest that are currently being analyzed. Both companies have offices in the main diamond squares, Antwerp and Dubai. It is our intention to have an acidification unit on the Angolan Diamond Exchange. Before selling to buyers, the diamonds will be able to undergo a deep ebolition process, which will take place at the Exchange's facilities, aiming at local processing and maximizing the price ”, explained Peter Meeus.
The Angola Diamond Exchange will also include a Gemology Academy and a Technological Research Center and will have its operations incorporated as a Free Zone.
