Minister Joly announces ban on direct import of Russian diamonds and related products

December 6, 2023 – Ottawa, Ontario – Global Affairs Canada

The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today announced that Canada, in coordination with its G7 partners, is imposing new import restrictions on Russian diamonds and diamond jewellery related products.

This ban follows a commitment made in May 2023 by G7 leaders to work collectively to reduce the revenues that the Putin regime extracts from the export of non-industrial diamonds mined, processed or produced in Russia.

Canada will continue working with its G7 and other international partners to implement comprehensive controls and verification measures for banning Russian diamonds.

By reducing the revenues that Russia extracts from the diamond industry, Canada is ensuring that proceeds from the export of Russian diamonds and diamond-related products will not contribute to financing conflict. Today’s announcement therefore imposes further costs on the Kremlin for its illegal and unjustifiable war of aggression against Ukraine.