Government of Botswana and De Beers Group Extend Sales Agreement

- Government of Botswana and De Beers Group extend sales agreement.
- Extension allows for further discussions on contract renewal.
- Challenges from the pandemic prompted the one-year extension.
Government and De Beers Reach New Sales Agreement
In a significant development shaped by the ongoing pandemic, the Government of the Republic of Botswana and the De Beers Group have officially agreed to a one-year extension of their existing sales agreement. This extension comes as a response to the logistical challenges that have arisen as a direct result of the pandemic, impacting various sectors including the diamond industry. Originally set to conclude in December 2020, this agreement will now last until the end of 2021, thereby granting both parties additional time to negotiate potential renewal terms for their contract.
Extension Provides Crucial Time for Negotiations
The original sales agreement encompasses the sale of rough diamond production from Debswana, a leading partnership between the Botswana government and De Beers. This strategic collaboration has not only fueled the Botswana economy but has also established the country as a significant diamond producer on the global stage. With this extension in place, stakeholders will have the chance to thoroughly discuss and evaluate future agreements ahead of the new deadline.
De Beers Group’s Ongoing Commitment to Sustainability
De Beers Group has been a leading name in the diamond industry since its establishment in 1888 and continues to pioneer in diamond exploration and marketing. The company employs over 20,000 individuals globally and is recognized as the world’s largest diamond producer by value. Moreover, De Beers is committed to innovation in the industry, focusing on responsible mining practices and community well-being, aligning with their core values of fairness and sustainability in business.
The extension of the sales agreement between the Government of Botswana and De Beers Group signifies a crucial moment amidst the challenges posed by the pandemic. This provides both parties with an opportunity for future negotiations surrounding the diamond sector, ensuring that the impact of these discussions can be more thoroughly explored. De Beers continues to maintain its leadership in the diamond market, focusing on ethical practices and innovative solutions for a better future.