Canada and the Kimberley Process

Canada is a founding member of the Kimberley Process.

The Kimberley Process is an international, multi-stakeholder certification scheme. It was established in 2003 to prevent the flow of “conflict diamonds”. Conflict diamonds are rough diamonds used by rebel movements or their allies to finance armed conflicts against legitimate governments.

The Kimberley Process was created to help end diamond-fuelled armed conflicts in Angola and Sierra Leone. It also helps the legitimate trade in rough diamonds.

Kimberley Process participants must apply national legislation and safeguards. This ensures that domestically produced rough diamonds are exported with a Kimberley Process certificate. This certificate confirms that the diamonds have not funded rebel movements (or their allies). It certifies that they are not traded with non-participating countries.  

The Kimberley Process currently includes 60 participants. They represent 86 countries, with the European Union representing EU member states. Industry and civil society participate as observers.

Canada’s commitment to the Kimberley Process

Canada is one of the world’s largest rough diamond producers. In Canada, we implement the Kimberley Process certification scheme through the Export and Import of Rough Diamonds Act (EIRDA) Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) administers this act. Global Affairs Canada (GAC) and NRCan represent Canada at the Kimberley Process meetings and working groups.

Canada helps fund the Kimberley Process Secretariat (established in 2024). The Secretariat provides professional and dedicated administrative support.

Canada’s priorities within the Kimberley Process

Canada will continue to work with Kimberley Process partners. Together, we will promote transparency and good governance in the diamond industry. This includes advancing efforts to enhance traceability. This safeguards consumer confidence in the diamond sector. Canada remains committed to make sure that the sale of diamonds is not used to finance armed conflict.

For further information, contact the NRCan’s Kimberley Process Office.

Related links

• The Kimberley Process (in English only)
• The Kimberley Process certification scheme in Canada (NRCan)