Doha: The Qatar Diamond Exchange (QDE) has signed a memorandum of understanding with Borsa Diamanti d’Italia, expanding its network of international bourse partnerships into Europe and potentially creating another trading link for global diamond businesses.
Signed during the CIBJO Centenary Congress in Vicenza from September 4–7, the agreement provides for closer cooperation between the two bourses, including member introductions, commercial relationships, reciprocal visits and participation in tenders, auctions and industry viewings. Both exchanges also committed to recognised industry standards, including the World Diamond Council’s System of Warranties and Responsible Jewellery Council frameworks.
For India’s diamond trade, the development adds another Gulf-based trading node connecting producers, international buyers and established European diamond centres. QDE, launched in July 2026 at Ras Bufontas Free Zone, is positioned as a regulated platform for rough and polished diamonds, with trading, vaulting, certification, customs and tender facilities. Its stated objective is to connect producers in Africa and Asia with buyers in Europe and the Gulf.
The move comes as Indian diamond exporters continue to navigate weak realisations despite signs of improvement in volumes. According to GJEPC data reported this week, India’s cut and polished diamond exports rose 3.23% in volume terms in August 2026, while export value remained under pressure.
QDE’s European expansion follows earlier MoUs with the Diamond Exchange of Singapore, Shanghai Diamond Exchange and Tokyo Diamond Exchange, giving the newly launched bourse a growing network across Asia and Europe. QDE also joined the World Federation of Diamond Bourses in July.
For Indian diamantaires, the significance lies less in the bilateral Qatar-Italy agreement itself and more in the emergence of Doha as an additional regulated trading and networking point linking the Gulf with established diamond centres.
