YEREVAN, July 28. /ARKA/. The Qatar Free Zones Authority (QFZ) has announced the launch of the Qatar Diamond Exchange (QDE), a unified platform for trading rough and polished diamonds, as well as other precious stones. The exchange will be located in the Ras Bu Fontas free economic zone in Doha, according to Frank Media, citing QFZ.
On this platform, trading operations, stone certification, customs clearance, independent appraisal, insurance, and secure storage will be available. The QDE infrastructure also includes a trading hall, private negotiation rooms, and spaces for auctions and tenders. Organizers aim to connect diamond producers from Africa and Asia with buyers from Europe and the Gulf countries.
Participants in the exchange can be companies engaged in trading, manufacturing, cutting, and polishing diamonds, as well as suppliers of industry services. The free zone provides for 100% foreign ownership and a zero corporate tax rate for qualifying companies.
Qatar joined the Kimberley Process certification scheme in 2021. A law passed in 2025 designated QFZ as responsible for its implementation, and Qatari free zones as the only legal points for the import and export of rough diamonds. Authorities expect that the new exchange will help diversify Qatar's economy and strengthen Doha's position in the global precious stone trade.
