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The Qatar Diamond Exchange announced that its director Ghanim Nasser Al Saadi signed the agreements with Fabio Cascapera of the Diamond Exchange of Singapore, Lin Qiang of the Shanghai Diamond Exchange and Michio Iwasaki of the Tokyo Diamond Exchange. The pacts were formalised at the 41st World Diamond Congress in Singapore, according to the exchange’s statement. They seek to connect Qatari operators more closely with established Asian trading centres at a time when the global industry continues to emphasise transparent supply chains. The Qatar Free Zones Authority had launched the exchange in July 2026 at Ras Bufontas Free Zone to serve as a single regulated platform for trading, certification, vaulting and related services.
The memorandums of understanding focus on fostering business connections among members, encouraging commercial relationships, facilitating mutual introductions, promoting bilateral visits and supporting reciprocal participation in events and exhibitions. According to the Qatar Diamond Exchange statement, the alliances will help position Doha as an emerging gateway between major diamond markets. The exchange noted that such cooperation aligns with efforts to strengthen Qatar’s standing in a sector where Kimberley Process participants represent 99.8 percent of worldwide rough diamond output.
Ghanim Nasser Al Saadi said, “These agreements represent a significant step in positioning Qatar as a key player in the global diamond trade. By collaborating with leading Asian diamond exchanges, we are creating new opportunities for growth, innovation, and knowledge exchange that will benefit our members and the wider industry.” Fabio Cascapera added that the partnership with the Qatar Diamond Exchange opens exciting new avenues for collaboration between members and will help strengthen the global diamond network. The statement described the deals as advancing adherence to rigorous industry standards.
Lin Qiang stated that the strategic alliance with the Qatar Diamond Exchange will foster greater cooperation in the diamond sector across Asia and beyond while promoting ethical and transparent trade practices. Michio Iwasaki welcomed the chance to build bridges with the new Qatari platform, underscoring that such partnerships remain essential for the future development of the diamond industry worldwide. The agreements come months after the Qatar Diamond Exchange joined the World Federation of Diamond Bourses, a move reported by industry outlets following the July congress.
Qatar News Agency figures show the exchange operates from Ras Bufontas Free Zone adjacent to Hamad International Airport, offering secure facilities that include biometric vault access, on-site customs and 24-hour surveillance. The platform integrates trading, membership and certification services under one regulatory umbrella, according to the authority’s launch announcement. This infrastructure is intended to attract international participants seeking efficient access to Gulf and broader Middle East markets.
Kimberley Process data placed global rough diamond production at 118 million carats in 2024, with average values per carat declining amid shifting consumer demand. The Qatar Diamond Exchange statement highlighted the pacts’ role in building consumer confidence through promotion of the World Diamond Council’s System of Warranties and Responsible Jewellery Council principles. Officials expect the linkages to support Qatar’s broader push to diversify beyond hydrocarbons.
The initiatives tie directly into Qatar National Vision 2030, under which the Qatar Free Zones Authority has prioritised development of specialised trading ecosystems. The exchange’s statement emphasised that connecting Doha with Singapore, Shanghai and Tokyo will create sustainable channels for rough and polished diamonds while reinforcing ethical standards across the value chain. Further bilateral activities are anticipated as the memorandums take effect.
