Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal, who is in Brussels, met with the delegation of Antwerp World Diamond Centre (AWDC) on Monday and asserted that India will safeguard the interests of its small and medium enterprises and individuals in the diamond industry. In a post on X, Goyal said, "Met with the delegation of Antwerp World Diamond Centre (AWDC) led by their President and other stakeholders from the diamond industry. Conveyed India's stand on safeguarding the interests of our Small & Medium Enterprises and individuals in the diamond industry."

During the meeting, Goyal requested the European Commission trade commissioner to extend the deadline for technology-based certification in the diamond sector. "Also, deliberated on the progress of the request made to the Trade Commissioner regarding an extension of the deadline for technology-based certification, highlighting its crucial role in supporting Indian small businesses and protecting consumer interests in the diamond sector," Goyal said on X.