Botswana is stepping up efforts to secure duty-free access for its rough diamonds into the United States, signalling it will not retreat from its push to cut tariffs from 15 percent to zero despite a shifting global trade landscape.
Minerals and Energy Minister Bogolo Kenewendo said government remains committed to removing the levy entirely, after successfully negotiating it down from 37 percent last year. ‘We will continue our efforts until there are no tariffs imposed,’ she said, describing the move as critical to restoring competitiveness in Botswana’s diamond sector.
The tariff was introduced in April 2025 under a reciprocal trade framework targeting countries with perceived imbalances. Following diplomatic engagement , the rate was reduced to 15 percent in August, with further proposals now under consideration by Washington.
Officials say negotiations remain ongoing, with Botswana opting for a measured approach rather than reactive policy shifts. Naledi Madala, a senior policy adviser at the Ministry of Finance, said government would prioritise long-term economic strategy over short-term responses to global trade volatility.
The stakes are high. While Botswana’s direct exports to the US are limited, the country sits at the centre of the global diamond supply chain. The US accounts for more than half of global diamond demand, with Botswana’s stones typically cut and polished in hubs such as India, the United Arab Emirates and Belgium before reaching American consumers.
That pipeline is now under strain. Tariffs on key processing centres including India and the UAE are adding friction to an already weak market, compounding pressure from subdued global demand.