The diamond trade in Antwerp has received a major boost after the United States lifted the 15 percent import tariff on polished diamonds originating from the European Union. This decision, made retroactive to September 1, restores Antwerp’s strong competitive edge and positions it once again as a leading global hub for polished diamond exports.
The Antwerp World Diamond Centre welcomed the agreement, stressing that tariff-free access to the US market ensures fairer competition and strengthens the position of Belgian polishers. Antwerp’s annual exports of polished diamonds to the United States amount to around $2.1 billion, and removing the duty makes these gems significantly more attractive to American buyers.
The decision also makes Antwerp more appealing as a transit point for stones originating elsewhere. Producers in India and Africa may increasingly route goods through Belgium to benefit from the exemption. This not only bolsters Antwerp’s role in global diamond flows but also reassures local traders who feared losing ground to other hubs.
By securing this exemption, Antwerp sets a precedent that could inspire similar deals in the diamond industry worldwide. The move underscores the city’s enduring influence and reputation in the global trade. For Antwerp’s diamond traders, it is a moment of relief and renewed optimism, as their gems now sparkle brighter in the American market.
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