Diamond Export Data: Top Diamond Exporters & Largest Exporting Countries

Diamonds remain one of the most valuable and complex commodities in the global trade market. Unlike most natural resources, diamonds undergo a complex and fragmented value chain, spanning from mining and sorting to cutting, polishing, certification, and final retail. As a result, diamond export data does not simply reflect where diamonds are mined. Instead, it shows where value is added, where trading hubs operate, and where global supply chains converge. According to the global trade data and diamond export data, the total value of global diamond exports reached $78.85 billion in 2024, a significant decline of 28% from the previous year. 

In 2024–25, the global diamond trade is navigating a period of adjustment. Consumer demand has softened in some markets, inventories have been recalibrated, and lab-grown diamonds are reshaping parts of the industry. Despite this, diamonds continue to account for well over US$100 billion in annual international trade, combining rough and polished stones. This blog provides a comprehensive, data-driven analysis of diamond exports in 2024–25, explains the difference between rough and polished diamond trade, and identifies the largest diamond-exporting countries in the world, based on both value and strategic importance.

Global Diamond Trade Overview (2024–25)

Total Diamond Export Value

In 2024–25, the estimated value of global diamond exports stands at approximately:

• US$105–110 billion annually, including:

• Rough diamonds: US$18–22 billion

• Polished diamonds: US$85–90 billion

While these figures fluctuate with prices, inventory cycles, and demand conditions, they highlight a key fact: most value in the diamond trade is created after mining, during cutting, polishing, and trading.

Market Conditions in 2024–25

The diamond market in 2024–25 is shaped by several forces:

• Slower luxury demand in the US and China compared to post-pandemic peaks

• Inventory corrections across cutting and trading hubs

• Increased competition from lab-grown diamonds in lower price segments

• Continued demand for high-quality natural diamonds in premium categories

Despite these pressures, diamond exports remain highly concentrated among a small group of countries that dominate mining, processing, or trading. In global trade discussions, analysts often debate the largest exporter of diamonds while comparing the top exporters of diamonds using detailed reports on diamond exports by country. 

As the biggest diamond exporter plays a key role in the supply chain, and the biggest diamond exporters are evaluated by volume and value, with every diamond exporter country striving to become the top exporter of diamonds, earn recognition as the largest diamond exporting country, rank among the biggest diamond exporters in the world, and be listed alongside the largest exporters of diamonds.

Diamond Exports by Country: Who Are the Largest Diamond Exporting Countries? 

When examining diamond exports by country, it is evident that certain nations stand out as the largest diamond exporters. Countries such as India, the USA, Russia, and Botswana rank among the top players in the global diamond market. These countries have established themselves as key exporters due to factors like abundant diamond reserves, advanced mining technologies, and strategic partnerships with various diamond distributors. 

Asia's suppliers sold $46.1 billion, or 59.1%, of the world's exported diamonds in 2024-25, as per the Asia trade data. North American exporters produced 17.3% of the total, with Europe coming in second at 14.8%. Africa (8.6%), principally Australia in Oceania (0.1%), and Latin America (0.03%), excluding Mexico but encompassing the Caribbean, accounted for smaller shares of the world's diamond exports. The top 10 diamond-exporting countries, as per the global diamond shipment data for 2024-25, include: 

1. India: $14.37 billion (18.2%)

India holds the title of the largest diamond-exporting country in the world. Known for its skilled craftsmanship and cutting-edge technology, India has established itself as a major player in the diamond industry. The country's diamond exports account for a significant portion of its overall GDP, making it a crucial sector for the Indian economy.

2. USA: $12.42 billion (15.8%)

The United States is another key player in the global diamond market. With a strong demand for luxury goods and high-quality diamonds, the USA has become a major hub for diamond trading and exports. The country's diamond industry is known for its innovation and top-notch cutting and polishing techniques.

3. Hong Kong: $12.18 billion (15.4%)

Hong Kong has emerged as a major player in the diamond industry in recent years. The region's strategic location and efficient trade network have made it a popular choice for diamond traders and buyers. Hong Kong's diamond exports continue to grow steadily, cementing its position as one of the top diamond-exporting countries in the world.

4. United Arab Emirates: $10.09 billion (12.8%)

The United Arab Emirates has quickly risen through the ranks to become a major player in the global diamond market. The country's strategic location and state-of-the-art infrastructure have attracted diamond traders from around the world. The UAE's diamond exports are a significant contributor to its economy and play a vital role in its overall growth.

5. Belgium: $7.02 billion (8.9%)

Belgium has a long-standing tradition of diamond trading and cutting, making it one of the oldest and most respected players in the diamond industry. The country's skilled craftsmen and high-quality diamonds have earned Belgium a reputation for excellence in the global market. Belgium's diamond exports are a key driver of its economy and are highly sought after by buyers worldwide, as per the Belgium diamond export data by HS code.

6. Israel: $5.51 billion (7%)

Israel may be a small country, but it punches well above its weight in the diamond industry. Known for its expertise in diamond cutting and polishing, Israel is a major player in the global market. The country's diamond exports are a crucial source of revenue and have helped put Israel on the map as a key player in the diamond industry.

7. Botswana: $2.50 billion (3.2%)

Botswana is one of Africa's largest diamond producers and has a strong presence in the global diamond market. The country's diamond exports are a vital source of revenue and have helped fuel its economic growth in recent years. Botswana's commitment to sustainable diamond mining practices has earned it a reputation as a responsible player in the industry.

8. Russia: $1.74 billion (2.2%)

Russia is home to some of the world's largest diamond mines and has a thriving diamond industry, as per the Russia customs export data of diamond by HS code. The country's diamond exports are a significant contributor to its economy and play a key role in its overall growth. Russia's high-quality diamonds and innovative practices have helped establish it as a major player in the global diamond market.

9. South Africa: $1.68 billion (2.1%)

South Africa has a rich history of diamond mining and is known for producing some of the world's most prized diamonds. The country's diamond exports are a crucial source of revenue and play a vital role in its economy. South Africa's diamonds are highly sought after for their quality and craftsmanship, making it a key player in the global diamond market.

10. Angola: $1.53 billion (1.9%)

Angola is one of Africa's largest diamond producers and has a growing presence in the global diamond market. The country's diamond exports are a key driver of its economy, helping to fuel its development and growth. Angola's commitment to sustainable diamond mining practices has earned it a reputation as a responsible player in the industry.

Top Global Diamond Exporters & Suppliers: Diamond Exporter Database

The Diamond Exporters Database is a valuable resource for those in the diamond industry looking to connect with reputable exporters and suppliers worldwide. This database provides comprehensive information on top global players in the diamond trade, making it easier for businesses to establish partnerships and source high-quality diamonds. There is a wide range of diamond suppliers globally, as per the reports of the International Diamond Manufacturers Association. The leading diamond exporters in the world, as per the global diamond exporters data & diamond suppliers list for 2024-25, include:

Global Diamond Exports in the Last 10 Years: Yearly Diamond Export Data

Rough Diamonds vs Polished Diamonds: Why Export Rankings Differ

Understanding diamond export data requires separating rough diamonds from polished diamonds.

Rough Diamond Exports

Rough diamond exports reflect where diamonds are mined and initially sold. Countries rich in diamond resources dominate this segment, even if they do little processing domestically.

Key characteristics:

• Lower export value compared to polished diamonds

• High sensitivity to mining output and global demand

• Often controlled by long-term supply contracts

Polished Diamond Exports

Polished diamond exports reflect cutting, polishing, grading, and trading hubs. These countries may import rough diamonds, add value, and then re-export polished stones.

Key characteristics:

• Much higher export value

• Greater employment and value addition

• Strong dependence on skilled labor and infrastructure

As a result, the world’s largest diamond exporter overall is not the largest diamond producer.

Key Trends Shaping Diamond Exports in 2024–25

Shift Toward Fewer, Stronger Hubs

The diamond trade is becoming more concentrated in:

• India for processing

• UAE for trading

• Belgium and Israel for high-end stones

Increased Compliance and Traceability

Buyers increasingly demand:

• Proof of ethical sourcing

• Clear origin documentation

• Compliance with international standards

This favors established exporters with strong systems.

Pressure from Lab-Grown Diamonds

Lab-grown diamonds are:

• Reducing demand for low-priced natural diamonds

• Forcing natural diamond exporters to focus on rarity and quality

This trend affects export values but not necessarily volumes.

Outlook for Diamond Exports Beyond 2025

The diamond industry is unlikely to return to unchecked growth. Instead, it is entering a phase of selective, quality-driven expansion.

Key expectations:

• Stable to moderate growth in global diamond exports

• Continued dominance of India in polished diamonds

• Growing influence of the UAE as a trading hub

• Greater segmentation between premium and mass-market diamonds

Conclusion: Who Is the Largest Exporter of Diamonds?

In 2025, the answer depends on perspective:

• Largest diamond exporter overall: India

• Largest rough diamond exporter: Botswana

• Most important diamond trading hub: United Arab Emirates

Together, these countries form the backbone of the global diamond trade. While market conditions evolve & new challenges emerge, the structure of diamond exports remains remarkably resilient. Diamonds may be small in size, but in global trade, they remain one of the most valuable and strategically significant commodities in the world.

For more information on the latest global trade statistics, or to search live data on diamond exports by country, visit TradeImeX. Contact us at info@tradeimex.in for customized trade reports, market insights, and a verified database of the top diamond exporters, tailored to your business needs.