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Significance
Protracted negotiations over a new deal have been complicated by political tensions between President Mokgweetsi Masisi and his predecessor Ian Khama. Botswana produces almost one-quarter of the world’s diamonds and its importance to the sector has been magnified as buyers shun diamonds from Russia, the world’s largest producer.
Impacts
Efforts to prosecute Khama could damage Botswana’s reputation as a stable democracy.
Difficulties with the negotiations may encourage De Beers to broaden its supply base beyond Botswana.
Uncertainty over future diamond production will encourage Botswana to diversify its mining sector into coal and copper.
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2023
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