ANTWERP — Natural diamonds cut in Europe are once again exempt from U.S. import tariffs, ending a six-month period during which a 10% duty applied. However, AWDC successfully argued that natural diamonds are subject to existing traceability and origin-verification mechanisms — including the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme and G7 controls on rough and polished diamonds — that address forced-labor concerns. U.S. authorities accepted this reasoning, and European natural diamonds were placed on the list of products exempt from the Section 301 action. AdvertisementOn the significance for Antwerp, Rentmeesters added: “The restored 0% exemption once again makes it more attractive to have natural diamonds cut in Europe. The fact that natural diamonds cut in Europe are once again exempt from these US import tariffs strengthens Antwerp’s position as Europe’s cutting centre.”