Botswana diamond mines shut down operations to save money. Debswana Diamond Company stopped work at major sites after diamond sales crashed worldwide. The company produces most diamonds for the African nation. Sales money fell 46 percent last year when buyers stopped purchasing gems.
Diamond demand stayed weak since late 2023 across all markets. Debswana cut production from normal levels to 17.93 million carats during 2024. The company plans to make only 15 million carats during 2025. American trade taxes made selling diamonds harder for African miners.
Workers keep their jobs during the production pause. Debswana offered voluntary departures but won't force people to leave. The company saves fuel and electricity costs at closed facilities. Underground mining projects continue at the main Jwaneng location.
Botswana depends heavily on diamond money for government funds. Diamonds provide 30 percent of national income and 75 percent of foreign cash. The economy shrank 3 percent last year when diamond prices fell. International experts predict another economic decline during 2025.
Diamond demand stayed weak since late 2023 across all markets. Debswana cut production from normal levels to 17.93 million carats during 2024. The company plans to make only 15 million carats during 2025. American trade taxes made selling diamonds harder for African miners.
Workers keep their jobs during the production pause. Debswana offered voluntary departures but won't force people to leave. The company saves fuel and electricity costs at closed facilities. Underground mining projects continue at the main Jwaneng location.
Botswana depends heavily on diamond money for government funds. Diamonds provide 30 percent of national income and 75 percent of foreign cash. The economy shrank 3 percent last year when diamond prices fell. International experts predict another economic decline during 2025.
