The Kimberley Process (KP) has appointed Maryam Al Hashemi, Senior Director of Precious Metals and Stones at DMCC, as Chair of the Committee on Participation and Chairmanship (CPC) for 2026. This appointment reinforces global efforts to strengthen governance and trust in the diamond trade.
India Takes the Helm of KP in 2026
India will serve as KP Chair in 2026, marking its third leadership term of the intergovernmental initiative. The country will focus on enhancing consumer confidence, digital traceability, and data-driven compliance throughout the diamond value chain.
A Veteran Leader in Diamond Trade Regulation
Al Hashemi brings decades of experience in diamond trade regulation and governance. She currently serves as Senior Director of Precious Metals and Commodities at DMCC and as UAE Kimberley Process Director. Since 2003, she has contributed to the UAE’s conflict-free diamond certification framework, overseeing both operational and strategic initiatives.
Her leadership experience includes supporting the UAE’s KP Vice-Chairmanship in 2015, Chairmanships in 2016 and 2024, and a previous tenure as CPC Chair in 2017. These roles underscore over a decade of high-level engagement within the KP.
Strengthening Dubai as a Global Diamond Hub
At DMCC, Al Hashemi has been instrumental in advancing Dubai’s position in international diamond trading. She oversees the Dubai Diamond Exchange, the world’s largest diamond trading platform with more than 1,300 members. She also supports key industry platforms, including the Dubai Diamond Conference and the Dubai Precious Metals Conference.
Under her guidance, Dubai’s combined rough and polished diamond trade has exceeded one billion carats over the past five years, highlighting the emirate’s growing influence in global commodities markets.
The Role of the Kimberley Process CPC
The CPC is a key governance body within the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme. It evaluates new participants, reviews compliance issues, and assesses candidates for the KP Vice-Chair role. Its recommendations are presented at the KP Plenary to maintain the integrity of the conflict-free diamond certification framework.
According to KP protocol, the previous year’s KP Chair assumes the CPC Chairmanship the following year. This places Al Hashemi at the centre of institutional continuity during India’s 2026 leadership term.
Driving Responsible Diamond Trade
Al Hashemi’s appointment is expected to enhance international collaboration and strengthen compliance mechanisms that prevent conflict diamonds from entering legitimate supply chains. Her leadership supports the KP’s long-standing objectives of transparency, traceability, and responsible sourcing in the global diamond industry.
