搬起⽯头砸⾃⼰脚？欧盟 “钻石禁令” 成国际笑话，反让中国品牌年销破亿

Core Viewpoint - The EU's ban on diamond trade with Russia has led to a significant decline in Antwerp's diamond industry, marking a severe downturn in the sector [1][3]. Group 1: Impact of EU Sanctions - Antwerp's diamond trade volume has reached a historical low due to the sanctions, with rough diamond imports dropping by 38% in the first three quarters of 2024 [3]. - The vacancy rate in Antwerp's office buildings has risen to 20%, with over 6,000 jobs directly related to the diamond industry lost [3]. - The number of diamond cutters in Antwerp has plummeted from 45,000 to around 400, indicating a severe contraction in the local industry [3]. Group 2: Emergence of Chinese Diamond Industry - China's Zhecheng has emerged as a significant player in the global diamond market, producing 6 million carats annually and holding a 56% market share [5][7]. - Zhecheng's cultivated diamonds have superior quality, with a Mohs hardness of 10 and a price only 20% of natural diamonds, leading to a surge in international demand [7][8]. - The brand "Zheguang Diamond" has gained popularity for its high-quality, customized jewelry, achieving annual sales exceeding 100 million yuan [8][10]. Group 3: Market Dynamics and Future Outlook - The global demand for mid-to-high-end diamonds in Europe and the U.S. is projected to grow at a rate of 12% annually, despite supply chain disruptions [5]. - The EU's sanctions, intended to curb Russian diamond trade, have inadvertently accelerated Antwerp's decline while allowing Chinese brands to transition from manufacturing to brand establishment [10][11]. - The rise of Chinese diamond brands signifies a shift in the competitive landscape, establishing a new era of "Eastern discourse power" in the luxury diamond market [11].