Namibia’s total diamond production fell by 12% year-on-year in the first quarter of 2026 to 556,000 carats, as disruptions in offshore mining operations outweighed stronger output from land-based producer Namdeb.
According to Anglo American’s Q1 2026 production report, the decline was largely driven by lower output at Debmarine Namibia, which was affected by vessel maintenance and fleet reductions.
“Namibia’s production decreased by 12% to 0.6 million carats due to scheduled maintenance on two vessels at Debmarine Namibia, along with the impact of decommissioning two vessels in 2025,” the report said.
Debmarine Namibia produced 354,000 carats during the quarter, down 23% from 461,000 carats recorded in the same period last year.
Despite the broader decline, Namdeb posted a strong quarter.
The land-based diamond producer increased output by 19%, producing 202,000 carats compared to 170,000 carats in the first quarter of 2025.
Production also rose 17% from the 173,000 carats produced in the fourth quarter of 2025.
On a quarterly basis, Namibia’s overall diamond sector showed signs of recovery, with total production rising 21% from 459,000 carats in the fourth quarter of 2025.
On the trading side, the Namibia Diamond Trading Company recorded total sales volumes for De Beers Group on a 100% basis, while consolidated figures excluded NDTC’s 50% share of sales to entities outside the group.
Anglo American said it remains committed to selling De Beers Group and is continuing with a formal divestment process, with an update expected later this year.
The company also maintained its 2026 production guidance at 21 million to 26 million carats on a 100% basis, saying it continues to monitor rough diamond market conditions to align output with demand.
