GJEPC Becomes First Industry Body to Secure Natural Diamond Council Membership

The Natural Diamond Council has announced that the Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) has joined its membership ranks, making it the inaugural industry organization to achieve this status under the Luanda Accord framework.

This development comes following GJEPC's signing of the Luanda Accord in June 2025 and its participation in the second Luanda Accord High-Level Meeting held in Cape Town during February 2026, where a Memorandum of Understanding was signed. The achievement reflects GJEPC's dedication to coordinated sector initiatives supporting natural diamonds.

India commands a pivotal position within the worldwide natural diamond supply chain, encompassing operations from cutting and polishing through to an expanding consumer base domestically. The nation functions as the globe's primary diamond-processing center, handling approximately 90 percent of the world's diamonds by volume, with Surat in Gujarat serving as the main hub.

The GJEPC, serving as the representative body for India's gem and jewellery commerce, has been instrumental in establishing India's standing as a worldwide sector leader through export promotion, sector advancement, and cross-border collaboration. The council's membership advancement with NDC strengthens sector partnerships at a moment when unified communications, public awareness initiatives, and sustained promotional efforts are becoming increasingly vital for maintaining demand for natural diamonds.

Amber Pepper, Chief Executive Officer of the Natural Diamond Council, expressed enthusiasm about the development: "We are delighted to bring GJEPC into the NDC family, signifying an important evolution in our existing relationship and a significant advancement in collaborative industry efforts. India holds essential importance in the worldwide natural diamond supply chain, and GJEPC's participation demonstrates our mutual dedication to fostering consistent category promotion, improving consumer knowledge, and advancing the expansion and distinction of natural diamonds. Through this partnership, we are amplifying our unified position to highlight the scarcity, genuineness, and meaningful value of natural diamonds, inspiring purchasers globally and affirming the lasting worth of this category."

Kirit Bhansali, GJEPC Chairman, commented on the significance of the membership: "The Natural Diamond Council serves as the international voice for our sector when communicating with consumers, and it is vital that we unite in backing its work in marketing natural diamonds, recognized as the most desired gemstone worldwide. With fresh consumer demographics entering the market, maintaining our engagement through compelling narratives, imaginative approaches, and informative content has become essential. Our decision to join the NDC and commit both strategic resources and funding stems from this mutual perspective regarding its long-term aims and expansion."

The recent moves signal meaningful advancement for the natural diamond sector as participants throughout the supply chain remain engaged in joint initiatives to reinforce buyer confidence and foster the sector's continued expansion.