The Democratic Republic of Congo produced 1.74 million carats between January and March 2025—a 26% decline from the 2.35 million carats produced during the same period last year. The drop continues a multi-year downward trend driven by structural issues and global market pressures. It was determined by the Ministry of Mines' Technical Cell for Mining Coordination and Planning (CTCPM).

The source indicates that artisanal mining is still the country’s dominant source of diamond production, accounting for over 80% of total output in Q1 2025, or roughly 1.39 million carats. The Kasaï Oriental province alone contributed an overwhelming 93.7% of artisanal output, followed by Kasaï Central. Other regions, including Sankuru, Kwango, Ituri, and Nord-Ubangi, made only marginal contributions.

On the industrial side, production reached 344,049 carats—about 19.7% of the total. The sector is heavily reliant on SACIM (Société Anhui-Congo d’investissement minier), which produced 97% of the country’s industrial diamonds this quarter. The once-dominant state-owned MIBA contributed just 3%, hampered by outdated equipment and chronic operational difficulties. Monthly figures revealed a steep decline: only 52,305 carats were produced in March, compared to 155,241 in January.

Semi-industrial output remains negligible, with just 485 carats recorded, representing 0.03% of total national production.

Over the past five years, the DRC’s diamond industry has seen continued volatility. Since peaking at 3.15 million carats in Q1 2022, output has steadily declined—now nearly halved. Analysts attribute the drop to aging industrial infrastructure, limited investment, and growing reliance on artisanal extraction.

Exports are also falling. The DRC exported 1.91 million carats in Q1 2025, down 3% from the previous year. The United Arab Emirates remains the primary destination, receiving nearly 1.68 million carats (87.7%) worth around $8 million. Belgium and India followed with 11.7% and 0.6% of export volumes, respectively.

Globally, the diamond market faces a crisis of confidence. Natural diamonds are under pressure from the rapid rise of synthetic alternatives—seen as more affordable and environmentally friendly. Prices have dropped significantly, from $12.5 per carat in 2022 to $9.6 in 2024, a 23.2% decline that continues to weigh on producers across the value chain.

This article was initially published in French by Ronsard Luabeya (intern)

Edited in English by Ola Schad Akinocho