EU RELEASES KIMBERLEY PROCESS CERTIFICATE NUMBERS OF DIAMOND STOLEN IN ARMED ROBBERY AT BRUSSELS AIRPORT

The European Union has released the Kimberley Process certificate numbers for parcels of rough diamonds that were stolen by gunmen from the hold of a Swiss-bound aircraft at Brussels International Airport on February 18.

Dear Presidents and Colleagues,

please allow me to extend my best wishes to you for the year ahead.

2012 saw a number of challenges and alas I believe we will see the supply and price of rough remaining under pressure during the coming year. It is however encouraging to hear that some of the major markets, such as the USA, have seen an increase in retail sales during the festive season and should this trend continue, it will be of great benefit to our sector.