Category: Diamond

Botswana is proposing a new law that mandates mining companies to sell a 24% stake in their operations to local citizens or citizen-owned companies once a license is granted, should the government choose not to exercise its option to acquire the shareholding. Botswana, renowned for its rich natural resources, particularly diamonds, saw its diamond production valued at $3.28 billion in 2023, making it the leading diamond producer in Africa and the second globally, only behind Russia, which had a production value of $3.60 billion. The proposed amendment to the existing… Read More Here

Anglo American (LON: AAL) announced last week that it is considering additional cuts to diamond production due to ongoing market challenges, complicating its plans to sell its De Beers unit as part of a significant business overhaul. The restructuring plan was announced in May following the successful rebuttal of a $49 billion takeover approach from BHP (ASX: BHP), the world’s largest miner. The plan includes the sale or divestment of its 85% stake in De Beers, the world’s largest diamond producer by value, to focus on copper, iron ore, and… Read More Here

Australia’s Lucapa Diamond (ASX: LOM) has put its 70% stake in the Mothae mine in Lesotho up for sale to focus on its core assets and is discussing options for the 30% held by the country’s government. The diamond miner’s board said it was “considering all options for the divestment” and finalizing a data room for interested parties. “On review, it is clear the company should streamline the portfolio to focus on our core assets in Africa and Australia,” chairman Stuart Brown said in the statement. “The company’s collaboration with… Read More Here

Anglo American announced on Tuesday its plans to spin off or sell its De Beers diamond business, ending an almost century-long association with the industry’s most renowned name. This decision is part of a broader restructuring strategy aimed at countering a $43 billion takeover bid from BHP Group, marking a significant shift in the diamond world. The diamond industry is currently under pressure from slumping prices, sanctions on Russia affecting trade, and the rising popularity of lab-grown gems, which are encroaching on traditional markets. The uncertainty surrounding the future operation… Read More Here

De Beers Group last week announced it is relocating the De Beers Group Auctions business headquarters from Singapore to Botswana. The relocation supports De Beers’ focus on streamlining its operations and enhancing the efficiency of its activities, while also facilitating further development of the diamond sector in Botswana. De Beers Group’s decision to relocate its Auctions headquarters to Gaborone reinforces its commitment to developing Botswana’s diamond industry. It also reflects confidence in the country’s capabilities and growth agenda. De Beers Global Sightholder Sales moved from the United Kingdom to Botswana… Read More Here