Doha:Strengthening Qatar's position as an emerging hub for international diamond trade, Qatar Diamond Exchange (QDE) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Diamond, Gem & Jewellery Association of Southern Africa (DGJASA). This partnership expands Qatar's connections with one of the world's most important diamond-producing regions.
According to Qatar News Agency, the partnership supports the Exchange's ambition to establish Qatar as a strategic gateway between African diamond producers and international markets. By leveraging Qatar's geographic location, world-class infrastructure, and business environment, the deal aims to facilitate trade and create new commercial opportunities across the global diamond value chain.
The agreement was signed in the presence of HE Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Faisal Al-Thani, Chairman of Qatar Diamond Exchange, and HE Valérie Lusamba Kabeya, Ambassador of the Democratic Republic of the Congo to the State of Qatar. Ghanim Al Saadi, Director of Qatar Diamond Exchange, and Molefi Letsiki, President of DGJASA, were the signatories.
Under the agreement, both organizations will work to develop trade relationships between their respective memberships. This includes facilitating business introductions, encouraging the exchange of industry knowledge, and identifying opportunities for cooperation. Members and management from both sides will also be invited to participate in industry events, tenders, auctions, and viewings, alongside reciprocal visits aimed at fostering direct engagement.
Ghanim Al Saadi stated that Southern Africa is central to the global diamond industry, with a long history of production, expertise, and trade. He highlighted that the partnership creates an opportunity for QDE to build stronger relationships with the region's diamond community and connect its businesses with new markets through Qatar.
Molefi Letsiki expressed that the partnership with QDE offers an opportunity to further expand DGJASA's international reach and open new commercial channels for its members. He noted that Qatar's strategic location and growing diamond trading ecosystem make it a promising partner.
The collaboration also emphasizes promoting consumer confidence in natural diamonds and precious stones by upholding internationally recognized industry standards, including those of the World Diamond Council and the Responsible Jewellery Council. Additionally, the agreement expands QDE's network of international partnerships, supporting its ambition to establish Qatar as an international hub for the diamond industry and contribute to the country's economic diversification goals under Qatar National Vision 2030.