At the recently concluded Presidents Meeting 2015, the International Diamond Manufacturers Association (IDMA) , while welcoming the formation of the Diamond Producers Association (DPA) and its proposed plans for "maintaining and enhancing consumer demand for and confidence in diamonds including joint category marketing initiatives”, also stressed that it is important for the manufacturing sector to achieve sustainable profit margins.

IDMA Secretary General Ronnie VanderLinden said that the manufacturers are the ones “who convert the vast majority of rough into polished”, adding that unless they make a sustainable profit, there is no “motivation for the young generation to join this industry".

The IDMA Working Session also noted that an alliance of the major rough producers for the purpose of promoting the image of diamonds will prove invaluable to the future of our industry. Members were unanimous in their hope that the DPA would be allocating resources sufficient to make significant inroads into driving improved consumer demand for diamonds and diamond jewellery.

IDMA members also reiterated their support of the World Diamond Mark Foundation and appreciated the role played by the World Diamond Council (WDC) in advancing the integrity and credibility of the industry worldwide.

IDMA President Maxim Shkadov commented that while conflict diamonds are no longer a serious threat to the industry, largely due to the WDC's efforts, "IDMA will remain vigilant and will promptly address the actions of any entity that undermines the industry's integrity and consumer confidence in diamonds."

At the session, members also expressed their appreciation that continuing research and technological developments in the screening and detection of synthetic diamonds will maintain consumer protection and confidence in natural diamonds. 

Pic Caption: Maxim Shkadov (on l) and Ronnie Vanderlinden