The Israeli Diamond Industry reported impressive growth in almost all trade parameters during 2013, according to figures published by Israel Ministry of Economy’s Diamond Controller Shmuel Mordechai.

Israel’s net polished diamond exports for 2013 rose 11.6% to $6.2 billion, compared to $5.6 billion for 2012.

Israeli’s net rough diamond exports totaled $2.9 billion, compared to $2.8 billion in 2012.

Net rough diamond imports rose 4.1% to $4.0 billion, compared to $3.8 billion in 2012.

Net imports of polished diamonds remained the same, totaling $4.3 billion, compared to $4.26 billion for 2012.

The United States continued to be Israel’s major market for polished diamonds, accounting for 37.3% of the market, with net exports of $2.3 billion. Hong Kong was the next largest market with 27% of exports or $1.7 billion. Switzerland accounted for 9.3% with exports of $451 million and Belgium was the next largest market with 7.3% or $380 million. India accounted for 2.3%, totaling $145 million.

Moti Ganz, Chairman of the Israel Diamond Institute Group of Companies (IDI) said that he was gratified by the results of 2013 and expressed confidence that the Israeli Diamond Industry would continue to grow in 2014.

“The global diamond industry faced serious economic challenges in 2013 – high rough diamond prices, a slowdown in Asian markets and a reduction in credit. Despite that, the Israeli Diamond Industry was able to achieve significant growth through creativity and resourcefulness,” Ganz said. He added that he was pleased that the United States and some European markets were flourishing, and expressed optimism about the medium term prospects of the Asian markets.

IDI Managing Director Eli Avidar said that the Israeli Diamond Industry was very active in marketing in 2013, which made a significant contribution the export growth. He said that IDI was planning to expand these activities in the coming year. Avidar mentioned that in addition to the successful international buying events held in 2013 in Ramat Gan and New York, the industry would hold several special rough events and would participate in new trade shows in selected markets. “We look forward to having an even better year in 2014,” Avidar said.