Last year, an Antwerp diamond company was fined and had its diamonds confiscated during a business trip in Italy. The authorities and court of justice ruled that the company did not have the correct license for the activities the company was performing in Italy. This was an exceptional situation and there were no records of similar incidents in the past. AWDC nevertheless wants to inform the diamond community about the legal framework and requirements.
The Italian law requires companies (incl. foreign companies) to have a “public safety license” (hereafter: “license”) when performing commercial activities related to valuable goods, such as diamonds. Simply transiting through Italy with such goods (without engaging in any commercial activity) is permitted and does not require this license. AWDC strongly recommends applying for a license if you intend to bring goods to Italy and sell them locally. Other activities related to valuable goods, such as exhibiting or brokering, are subject to the license as well. To be fully safe, one should obtain a license for these activities.
Trade shows, such as Vicenza Oro, offer a simplified procedure to bring goods to Italy in full compliance with the legislation. For more information, we advise you to check with the show organizer.
How to obtain this license?
It is mandatory to appoint a legally recognized local representative in Italy (a TULPS representative) who acts on behalf of your company and ensures that your activities comply with local legal and administrative requirements.
This representative can assist you in obtaining the required Public Safety License and help ensure compliance with Italian public security legislation.
We are currently looking into the most efficient way to establish contact with a TULPS representative. We will update you as soon as we have more concrete information.
Practical tip
Before appointing someone, always ask for proof of their TULPS license, so you know you are working with a government-recognized individual.
Check our FAQ
On our website, you will find a FAQ addressing the most pressing questions on what you need to comply with when traveling in Italy with diamonds for commercial purposes: https://www.awdc.be/public-safety-license-italy
