The Belgian diamond sector is an engine for the Belgian economy.  Last year, diamonds were accounted for more than 5 percent of total Belgian exports. These exceptional results underline once again the importance of the Antwerp diamond sector.

According to the Belgian newspapers, the Antwerp diamond trade grew in 2011 by 47 percent. The total trade is worth 44,6 billion euro (rough and polished diamond). In 2010 this was 30,1 billion euro.

Diamond import and diamond export

Both diamond import and diamond export increased in 2011 in absolute terms by more than 30 percent. The growth is merely due to the rising price of diamonds, because in carats the growth was less spectacular.

Demand for diamonds

The demand for diamonds in regions such as India and China boosted the diamond trade worldwide and is also creating a whole new atmosphere for the Antwerp diamond scene. This regions are becoming economically more independent, while the purchasing power of middle class people is noticeable. A diamond is not only a status symbol, it’s also a safe investment in times of economic crisis.