Central African Republic Demands End to 11-Year Diamond Export Embargo
- The Central African Republic is presenting its case to the Kimberley Process to lift an embargo on diamond exports.
- The embargo has been in place for over a decade due to civil war and ongoing instability.
- Efforts from the CAR government highlight progress towards peace and compliance with KP requirements.
The Central African Republic (CAR) has appealed to the Kimberley Process regulatory body to lift a decade-long embargo on diamond exports. This appeal coincided with a plenary assembly in Dubai, where CAR's Mines and Geology Minister Rufin Benam Beltoungou reiterated the government's commitment to stability and the fulfillment of conditions required for lifting restrictions. Since its imposition following a political crisis that began in 2013, the embargo has significantly impacted the CAR's economy, particularly its gem and mineral sectors. A third of the country's diamond mining zones are now classified as 'green', enabling exports, whereas the remaining zones still adhere to sanctions. Experts in the region express hope for a favorable KP report following a recent assessment mission, noting the sanctions have largely affected the government rather than insurgent groups, which continue to exploit resources despite the restrictions.