For the very first time, we jointly organized a large-scale anti-money laundering (AML) exam for Belgian diamond professionals with the FPS Economy. The initiative took place across two sessions: a first sitting on May 19 at the Antwerp Provincial House, followed by a retake edition on June 9. In total, 196 people took part, and nearly 80% passed.
Compliance with Belgian AML legislation is a cornerstone of doing business in Antwerp's diamond industry. The high value of diamonds, the complexity of international trade flows, and the ease with which they can be transported make the sector inherently high-risk. Belgian law therefore places strict obligations on diamond companies to actively prevent money laundering and terrorism financing, with the FPS Economy serving as the sector's supervisory authority.
Supporting diamond companies in meeting those obligations has long been a core task of AWDC. We invest heavily in training, awareness-raising and individual guidance, going further in this regard than many other sectors subject to the same legislation. The strong turnout and the near-80% pass rate on an exam requiring deep knowledge of AML law are a clear reflection of that investment, and of the industry's genuine commitment to the highest compliance standards.
Participants who passed receive an official certificate valid for three years. This AML certification is a legal requirement for diamond companies, and can be obtained either through the new exam or by correctly completing an annual questionnaire. Passing the exam grants a three-year exemption from that annual obligation, significantly reducing the administrative burden on businesses.
Collective efforts between the sector federation, diamond traders and supervisory authorities remain essential to reinforcing trust in the sector, including among international financial institutions and watchdogs such as the Financial Action Task Force (FATF).
