Angola’s diamond sector delivered a stronger-than-expected performance in 2025, with rough-diamond production rising by 8% year-on-year despite mounting pressures across the global market.

Total output reached 15.2 million carats, exceeding both the initial forecast of 15.1 million carats and the revised estimate of 14.8 million carats. The figures were confirmed by Jânio Víctor, Secretary of State for Mineral Resources, following the official release by the Ministry of Mineral Resources, Petroleum and Gas.

Export performance was equally robust. Angola shipped more than 17 million carats of rough diamonds during the year, generating approximately $1.6 billion in revenue. This represents a significant 70% increase in volume, although value rose by a more modest 7%, highlighting the ongoing pressure on global diamond prices. The majority of exports were directed to the United Arab Emirates, which accounted for 79% of shipments, while Belgium received a further 20%.

While these results underscore Angola’s growing importance as a key supplier of natural diamonds, they come at a time when the broader diamond market is facing considerable headwinds. Prices remain under pressure due to a combination of factors, including subdued consumer demand in key markets such as the United States and China, elevated inventory levels across the midstream, and the continued rise of lab grown diamonds, which are reshaping pricing dynamics and consumer perception.

In addition, cautious buying patterns, tighter liquidity within the cutting and polishing sector, and ongoing macroeconomic uncertainty have all contributed to a more challenging trading environment for natural diamonds.

Despite these conditions, Angolan officials remain optimistic about the sector’s resilience. The government expects gradual stabilisation in 2026, supported by improved supply discipline and a shift towards more selective, demand-driven purchasing. However, external factors, including global economic conditions and the evolving competitive landscape between natural and synthetic diamonds, are expected to continue influencing market performance.

From a DCLA perspective, the divergence between rising production and softening prices reinforces the importance of quality, rarity, and precise grading standards. As supply expands in a subdued market, the premium attached to well-certified, high-quality natural diamonds is likely to become even more pronounced.