Discussions at the World Diamond Congress 2016 to be held at Dubai between May 16 and 19 will focus on creating sustainable, long-term growth in the diamond supply pipeline in a transparent, ethical and socially responsible manner, says WFDB President Ernie Blom.

In a statement released on Jan 25, Blom said that the Congress is one of the most important gatherings of the global diamond trade and will be an opportunity for all the bourse presidents to share their views on critical subjects. The Congress also provides them the opportunity to hear the opinons of stakeholders involved in different areas of the diamond pipeline – from mining firms and governments to leading banks and labs, he added.

The 37th World Diamond Congress, the biennial meeting of the World Federation of Diamond Bourses (WFDB) and the International Diamond Manufacturers Association (IDMA) will be attended by WFDB's 30 presidents and more than 200 representatives of the global diamond industry including producers, diamond-mining countries and a range of service organisations, such as banks and labs.

Discussions at the Congress will also focus on the issue of generic marketing of diamonds to increase the diamond jewellery sector's competitive position and share of the luxury consumer market, Blom said. This will include the question of how to gather across-the-board support for the WFDB's World Diamond Mark initiative, as well as how to create stronger links with the Diamond Producers Association.

“I urge all members of the diamond industry to register for this event as we continue to advance preparations for what I am sure will be an interesting, challenging and enjoyable event at the AlmasTower hosted by the Dubai Diamond Exchange," Blom concluded.