India's Gem and Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) has become a full member of the World Federation of Diamond Bourses (WFDB) and as such the first non-bourse member of WFDB. The GJEPC's Annual General Meeting in Mumbai approved changes in its code of ethics necessary to complete the process of joining.

Congratulating GJEPC on this move, WFDB President Ernie Blom said, "I am delighted that the GJEPC has become our first non-bourse member. India is a very important part of the global diamond industry, and the Gem and Jewellery Export Promotion Council is a major force in promoting the country's trade.”

He further noted that, "We look forward to welcoming other industry players into the WFDB. Such bodies will provide us with important input regarding the diamond and jewellery trade from their perspective, and they will be able to observe our operations from within at our meetings. Our industry is undergoing continuous change, and that makes it vital for bodies from across the diamond pipeline to join the WFDB as it leads our trade forward.” Blom further wished ‘all members of the diamond and jewellery business around the world a happy, successful and prosperous 2017. I also look forward to greeting colleagues and friends soon at the 2017 Presidents Meeting in Mumbai which takes place from February 5-8.”