De Beers plc is a leading global diamond company specializing in the entire diamond value chain, including mining, exploration, retail, grading, and trading. Founded in 1888, De Beers has a long-standing history as a dominant player in the diamond industry, historically controlling up to 85% of the rough diamond distribution worldwide. Today, it operates in 35 countries with major mining operations in Botswana, Namibia, South Africa, and Canada. The company is structured as a holding entity with Anglo American plc owning 85% and the Government of Botswana holding 15% of shares. De Beers plc itself is registered in Jersey and serves as the holding company for various joint ventures and wholly owned subsidiaries involved in diamond mining and sales.
The company has been actively involved in promoting ethical sourcing and conflict-free diamonds. Since 2000, De Beers ceased outside buying of diamonds to guarantee conflict-free status and played a leading role in establishing the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme, which certifies rough diamonds as conflict-free. De Beers also pioneered blockchain technology for diamond traceability through its Tracr platform, ensuring transparency from mine to retail.
De Beers’ lobbying efforts in the EU focus on representing its interests in mining regulation, trade policies, sustainability standards, and supply chain transparency. As a major player in critical raw materials, the company engages with EU institutions to influence policies that impact the diamond sector and broader mining industry. De Beers is registered in the EU Transparency Register, reflecting its commitment to open dialogue and compliance with EU lobbying standards.
The company’s lobbying profile includes detailed disclosures of its activities, financial expenditures, and affiliations with other organizations. De Beers collaborates with industry groups, sustainability initiatives, and regulatory bodies to shape EU policy in ways that support secure and sustainable diamond supply chains. Its lobbying activities are aligned with its corporate sustainability goals and efforts to maintain market leadership while addressing environmental and social governance (ESG) concerns.