World Diamond Council Names Ronnie VanderLinden President Amid Natural Diamond Industry Challenges
Ronnie VanderLinden has been appointed president of the World Diamond Council (WDC) following the organisation’s 2026 Annual General Meeting held in Antwerp on May 7.
Mr VanderLinden succeeds Feriel Zerouki at a time when the global natural diamond industry is facing weaker demand, increasing competition, and fragmented messaging across the sector.
In his first remarks as president, Mr VanderLinden stressed the need for the industry to unite behind a clear and consistent message supporting natural diamonds.
“We are here for one reason to be champions for the natural diamond trade,” he said.
“We must speak with one voice for natural diamonds. If we are not helping sell natural diamonds in a meaningful way, then we are not doing our job.”
He said the industry must better communicate the value and significance of natural diamonds, particularly by highlighting their economic and social impact in producing countries.
According to Mr VanderLinden, demonstrating where natural diamonds originate, how they move through the supply chain, and how they benefit producing communities will be critical in strengthening consumer confidence and supporting long-term demand.
He also emphasised the importance of removing obstacles that hinder the competitiveness and efficiency of the global diamond trade.
“The case for natural diamonds is strong, but it must be demonstrated with evidence,” he said.
Mr VanderLinden further reaffirmed the importance of the Kimberley Process as a key mechanism for maintaining trust in the natural diamond market.
The Kimberley Process Certification Scheme was established to prevent conflict diamonds from entering the mainstream global rough diamond trade.
“We will continue efforts to modernise the conflict diamond definition, so it reflects today’s realities and strengthens confidence in natural diamonds,” he said.
He added that the success of his presidency would ultimately be measured by tangible improvements within the industry rather than discussions alone.
During the AGM, Anoop Mehta was appointed WDC vice president. Mr VanderLinden described him as “a pillar of both the Indian and global natural diamond trade.”
David Bonaparte was elected WDC treasurer, while Udi Sheintal was re-elected secretary.
As a special recognition of her contribution to the organisation, Ms Zerouki was also appointed honorary president of the World Diamond Council.
