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African Diamond Trade

The African diamond trade involves the extraction, trading, and sale of diamonds mined primarily in African countries. These diamonds, often called "conflict" or "blood" diamonds when linked to violence or unethical practices, are processed and exported to global markets. The industry has historically been marred by issues like corruption, illegal mining, and human rights violations. However, initiatives like the Kimberly Process aim to ensure diamonds are ethically sourced and conflict-free. Overall, the trade is a significant economic activity for many African nations, balancing economic benefits with challenges related to ethical and sustainable practices.