Piyush Goyal engages with AWDC to strengthen Indo-Belgian Diamond Industry Ties

BRUSSELS : Hon’ble Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal, held a meeting with a delegation from the Antwerp World Diamond Centre (AWDC), led by its President Isidore Morsel, in Brussels on 20th January along with prominent stakeholders from the diamond industry.

Representing the interests of India’s diamond community, Shri Sabyasachi Ray, Executive Director, GJEPC, and Shri Anoop Mehta, President, Bharat Diamond Bourse (BDB), were also present.

During the discussions, Shri Goyal emphasised India’s commitment to protecting small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and individual stakeholders in the diamond sector.

Shri Goyal stated, “We conveyed India’s stand on safeguarding the interests of its SMEs and individuals in the diamond industry.”

The meeting also explored challenges posed by the shift towards technology-based certification. Shri Goyal highlighted ongoing efforts to secure an extension of the implementation deadline.

The Hon’ble Commerce & Industry Minister said, “We deliberated on the progress of the request made to the Trade Commissioner on the extension of the deadline for technology-based certification. Tech-based certification is crucial in supporting Indian small businesses and protecting consumer interests in the diamond sector.”