Antwerp World Diamond Centre (AWDC)
The Antwerp World Diamond Centre (AWDC) is the industry organization representing Belgium’s diamond sector and one of the key institutions supporting Antwerp’s position as a global centre for the diamond trade.
Based in the heart of Antwerp’s famous Diamond District, AWDC represents approximately 1,350 registered Belgian diamond companies and works to protect, strengthen and promote the interests of the Belgian diamond industry both nationally and internationally.
Antwerp itself has a remarkable diamond heritage stretching back more than five centuries. Today, the city remains one of the world’s most important centres for the buying, selling, importing and exporting of rough and polished diamonds.
What Does AWDC Do?
AWDC acts as both a representative organization and a service provider for Belgium’s diamond industry.
Its activities include supporting diamond companies with regulatory and compliance matters, representing the sector before Belgian and international authorities, promoting Antwerp as an international diamond trading centre, supporting security within Antwerp’s Diamond District and helping create a stable environment in which diamond businesses can operate.
AWDC also works closely with government authorities, financial institutions and other organizations connected to the international diamond industry.
The Role of the Antwerp World Diamond Centre (AWDC)
The Antwerp World Diamond Centre (AWDC) serves as the official representative body and coordinating platform for the diamond industry in Antwerp, Belgium—one of the world’s most important diamond trading hubs. As a public-private corporation, the AWDC plays a key role in promoting the interests of the Belgian diamond sector on both a national and international level.
The AWDC facilitates transparency, compliance, and ethical standards within the industry by supporting regulatory frameworks such as the Kimberley Process and promoting responsible sourcing. It also acts as a liaison between the government, industry stakeholders, and international organizations.
Additionally, the AWDC promotes Antwerp as a global center for diamonds through marketing efforts, business matchmaking, and logistical support. It works to ensure that Antwerp remains a competitive and trustworthy marketplace by fostering innovation, supporting trade, and upholding the city’s reputation for diamond excellence.
The Diamond Office
One of AWDC’s most important activities is its involvement in the Diamond Office, located in Antwerp’s Diamond District.
The Diamond Office is the only customs office in Belgium authorized to handle diamond imports and exports outside the European Union.
AWDC operates the Diamond Office in cooperation with the Belgian Federal Public Service Economy and Federal Public Service Finance (Customs). Diamond shipments are subject to strict controls and physical inspections by authorized experts.
The Diamond Office also plays an important role in verifying compliance with international requirements, including the Kimberley Process for rough diamonds.
According to AWDC, approximately 85,000 import and export declarations for diamond shipments are prepared through the Diamond Office each year.
AWDC and the Antwerp Diamond Community
Beyond regulation and representation, AWDC provides practical support to companies operating within the Belgian diamond industry.
Its activities include industry information and guidance, compliance support, trade promotion, international diamond fairs, stakeholder relations, security initiatives and events for the professional diamond community.
AWDC also represents the interests of Antwerp’s diamond sector in discussions with governments and other public and private stakeholders.