The international certification scheme requires that trade in rough diamonds be exclusively amongst Kimberley Process participants. Canada may trade in rough diamonds with participants listed on the Export and Import Rough Diamonds Act Schedule.

Step 1: Understanding the Requirements Associated with Importing Rough Diamonds into Canada

The Canada Border Services Agency Memorandum D-19-6-4 describes the requirements and controls established for the importation of rough diamonds into Canada. A certificate issued by the exporting Kimberley Process authority is required to accompany the imports of rough diamonds into Canada.

This certificate ensures that the rough diamonds for import have been handled in a manner that meets the minimum requirements of the Kimberley Process.

Shipments that have not been packed according to international agreements (i.e., appear to have been opened, or improperly packaged) may be detained or seized. Information about the packaging and sealing of rough diamond containers is available on the Kimberley Process Office web site and is set out in the regulations.

Step 2: Reporting the Import

Importers must present the Kimberley Process Certificate from a participating country to a Canadian Customs Officer at the point of entry. The customs official will stamp the certificate and the importer must send the original certificate by courier or mail to the Kimberley Process Office at NRCan within seven days. Imported rough diamonds will be subject to all other customs procedures.

Step 3: Maintaning Records On Imported Rough Diamonds

It is important to maintain records related to imported diamonds for three years. Should you wish to re-export all, or some, of the rough diamonds at a later date, you will require a Canadian Kimberley Process Certificate. In this instance, information required to obtain a Canadian Certificate will include information on the Kimberley Process Certificate that accompanied the diamonds on import.