Key points
- The move comes as Antwerp continues to face a shrinking pool of expert workers, a challenge highlighted in this Gems and Jewelry News report as one of the sector’s most urgent threats to future competitiveness.
- Belgium Acts to Reinforce Antwerp’s Diamond Workforce Belgium has introduced an important policy change that will allow Antwerp’s diamond companies to recruit skilled foreign polishers and sorters more easily, strengthening the city’s long-standing position as the world’s leading diamond hub.
- With more international companies now directing their rough stones to Antwerp for polishing before export to the US, the city requires a significantly larger skilled workforce to meet rising demand.
Gems and Jewelry News: Belgium Acts to Reinforce Antwerp’s Diamond Workforce Belgium has introduced an important policy change that will allow Antwerp’s diamond companies to recruit skilled foreign polishers and sorters more easily, strengthening the city’s long-standing position as the world’s leading diamond hub. The move comes as Antwerp continues to face a shrinking pool of expert workers, a challenge highlighted in this Gems and Jewelry News report as one of the sector’s most urgent threats to future competitiveness. Industry leaders have repeatedly warned that without additional talent, Antwerp’s ability to meet rising global demand could be compromised
Belgium strengthens Antwerps diamond hub by welcoming skilled global polishers and sorters
Image Credit: StockShots
A New Framework to Address Labor Shortages
Beginning 1 January 2026, the Flemish Government will formally add diamond polishers and sorters to its list of medium-skilled shortage occupations. This designation removes the requirement for companies to prove local scarcity before hiring specialists from outside the European Union. Instead, employers will be able to use a streamlined single-permit system designed to accelerate recruitment and provide consistent access to the precision skills needed to handle rough stones. The new rules are expected to reduce delays and stabilize operations for Antwerp’s polishing centers.
Industry Welcomes Government Support
The Antwerp World Diamond Centre (AWDC) praised the decision, emphasizing that Antwerp’s reputation in the global market relies heavily on professionals capable of analyzing stones by clarity, color, size and overall quality before they enter international tenders. AWDC CEO Karen Rentmeesters noted that without enough highly trained workers, Antwerp risks losing ground to competing hubs. The timing is particularly advantageous following the recent United States decision to remove tariffs on diamonds polished within the European Union. Antwerp already exports more than USD 2.1 billion in polished diamonds to the US annually, and this policy is expected to increase that volume further.
Tariff Free Access Drives New Growth Potential
With more international companies now directing their rough stones to Antwerp for polishing before export to the US, the city requires a significantly larger skilled workforce to meet rising demand. Belgium’s updated labor policy ensures Antwerp can capitalize on this opportunity while maintaining its global leadership in craftsmanship and reliability.
A Forward-Looking Boost for Antwerp’s Future
By opening access to international specialists, Belgium strengthens one of its most historic industries and ensures Antwerp remains a dominant force in the global diamond trade. The measure supports growth, stability and long-term confidence across the sector.
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