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NDTC and Ankit Gems Deepen Partnership as Namibia Expands Downstream Diamond Capacity December 08, 2025 (0 comments)
Windhoek, Namibia--Ankit Gems and the Namibia Diamond Trading Company (NDTC) have outlined the next phase of their collaboration as Namibia continues to build its downstream diamond industry. The partnership includes expanded cutting and polishing capacity and plans to introduce jewelry manufacturing in the country.
In an interview shared by NBC Digital News, Ankit Gems described its long-term focus on reliability since its founding in 1985. Chairperson Arun Shah said the company entered Namibia after meeting government officials, the Ministry of Mines, and NDTC. He said the group began operations with about 10 to 15 employees following early support from national leadership.
NDTC CEO Brent Eiseb said Namibia's value-addition efforts began about 18 years ago, with NDTC now supplying rough diamonds to 12 approved manufacturers. He said these companies must meet regulatory requirements and operate local cutting and polishing facilities.
Eiseb said the downstream sector has created more than 1,200 direct jobs and more than 3,000 indirect jobs. He added that Ankit Gems has invested close to USD 130 million in technology and infrastructure, while industry-wide investment over the past five years exceeds half a billion Namibian dollars.
Eiseb said these investments support skills transfer and broader participation by Namibians in the value chain. He also referenced NDTC's enterprise development program, which aims to expand local ownership in the sector.
Ankit Gems recently expanded its cutting and polishing facility in Namibia. Shah said the company plans to add jewelry manufacturing and retail, aligning with national development plans. He said the aim is to complete mining, polishing, production, and sales within Namibia.
Shah said workers were initially trained in India at the company's facilities before returning to take on roles in Namibia.
Eiseb said deeper value-chain integration strengthens the position of natural diamonds at a time when synthetics are expanding. He added that full local processing allows Namibia to show consumers how natural diamonds contribute to the country's economy.
He noted that investment in new technology is necessary for Namibia to remain competitive and encouraged other manufacturers to follow similar practices.
Shah said Ankit Gems will continue investing in Namibia and confirmed that jewelry manufacturing is the company's next planned step.
Watch the interview below.