AWDC signs MoU with Borsa Istanbul and the JTR Jewellers Association

AWDC has signed an MoU with the Borsa Istanbul and the JTR Jewellers Association aimed at further promoting the diamond trade between the two countries during the Belgian trade mission to Istanbul and Baku from April 26 to May 1.

Also, from May 4 to May 6, the AWDC is setting up a Turkish Visitor Program that will bring Turkish diamond jewelers, jewellery wholesalers and manufacturers to the diamond capital.

Turkey is one of the fastest growing economies in the world. Its sustained economic growth and burgeoning middle class has created greater purchasing power and made the luxury market flourish. Having an extensive jewellery manufacturing culture and a rich tradition of gold consumption, Turkey is Europe’s largest gold producer and one of the most dynamic jewelley markets globally, serving as the trading hub for countries in the Mediterranean, Eastern Europe, Russian Federation, Middle East and North Africa.

A delegation of 25 Turkish jewelers will come to Antwerp for a Visitor Program, a unique B2B event where they can establish contacts with Antwerp diamond traders. And with the lifting of the Special Consumption Tax, together with Turkey’s stated intention for Istanbul “to become a jewellery and diamond hub” by 2023, it is also clear that Turkish jewellers will be coming with solid ambitions to the world’s largest trading center. Furthermore, VAT on trade with members of the Istanbul Borsa will also be lifted. The situation could not be more promising for business.

Antwerp World Diamond Centre (AWDC) is an industry-established foundation, whose mission is to serve and support the diamond business in Antwerp, the world's most important diamond trade hub. AWDC is the coordinating body and the official representative of the Antwerp diamond sector, and as such is recognized internationally as the host, spokesperson and intermediary for the Belgian diamond community. In this capacity, AWDC liaises on behalf of the Belgian diamond sector with governments and actively promotes support for the diamond sector at home and abroad.