'Strongest natural diamond growth coming from India'

Al Cook, CEO of De Beers Group, sees India as a bright spot for natural diamonds as rising demand, growing aspirations and higher disposable incomes pull consumers towards the category.

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Despite the inroads made by lab-grown diamonds as a cheaper alternative, Cook-who visited India for the second time in eight months this week-says domestic consumers remain discerning in their choices. In an interview with Viveat Susan Pinto, he outlines De Beers' priorities for India and its retail strategy. Excerpts:

What brings you to India for the second time in months?

It underlines just how critical India is for us. Despite global turbulence, India continues to grow strongly. We expect GDP growth of around 7% through 2025. At a time of instability, India is increasingly viewed as a source of global stability. Diamonds were first discovered in India over 2,500 years ago, and that heritage continues today-