In the framework of the City of Antwerp's economic mission to Canada this week, the Antwerp World Diamond Centre paid a visit to one of the Antwerp diamond industry's major trade partners, Stornoway Diamond, at the miner's new Renard Mine in Qubec. AWDC CEO Ari Epstein was joined by Consul General of Belgium in Canada Hubert Roisin and Mayor of Antwerp Bart De Wever, as the umbrella organization highlighted its excellent trade relationship with Stornoway - whose entire production is marketed in Antwerp by Bonas Diamond Brokers & Consultants. Diamonds are the number one import from Canada to Belgium, and the Renard Mine will be responsible for more than 35% of that trade, reaching 1.8 million carats annually over the next ten years, AWDC noted.
AWDC CEO Epstein said, “Canada is one of Antwerp’s most important trade partners when it comes to diamonds. And the country has even greater potential. More than half of their rough output goes straight to the market in Antwerp, and this share is only increasing. More and more Canadian mining companies are opting for Antwerp due to its unique advantages when it comes to transparency, expertise and a critical mass of buyers and sellers.” He went on to say, "The Renard Mine is truly the model for the way diamond mining is done in this day and age. It is a symbol of all that is right about the diamond industry. A state-of-the-art facility, respect for the environment, safe mining conditions and a tremendous social and economic relationship with the local community. It is no wonder why we take so much pride in being associated with Stornoway."
Epstein spoke about the excellent trade relationship between Stornoway and Antwerp, which he said, “is a result of the fact that we share the same quality demands with regard to transparency, ethical values and the observance of national and international standards.” Antwerp Mayor Bart De Wever added, "100% of the diamonds produced at this mine go to Antwerp. We have an exclusive relationship with Stornoway Diamond. It is important for us to honor this relationship by coming here in the framework of our trade mission to Canada."