Minister Schumann Represents NWT at Premier Diamond Conference

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Blog Entries

June 8, 2017

Minister of Industry, Tourism and Investment Wally Schumann was on-hand to represent the Northwest Territories’ (NWT) interests at the world’s premier diamond tradeshow from June 4-7.

International diamond producers, manufacturers and jewelry retailers come together each year to meet and conduct business.  NWT diamond producers and manufacturers were among those in attendance.

With more than 2,300 exhibitors and 23,000 attendees, the JCK Las Vegas tradeshow is the foremost event for the global diamond industry.

Seeking new Opportunities

One of the unheralded benefits of Devolution is the authority to more directly promote the incredible potential of the NWT resource sector.

Minister Schumann’s role is to seek out and make contact with investors, corporations and even nations interested in partnering with, and investing in, the NWT.

Minister Schumann with David Gavin, Diamond Bourse of Canada

This event provides a great opportunity for the Government of the Northwest Territories to strengthen existing relationships with producers and stakeholders from the global diamond industry — and build new ones.

Canada’s Northwest Territories is the third-largest international diamond-producing authority by value. 

Celebrating and Supporting the North

Minister Schumann was among familiar faces at the Dominion Diamond Reception, delivering remarks celebrating the company’s long-running relationship with the North and Dominion’s place in its future.

From left: Patrick Coppens (GM, Sales; Rio Tinto), Albert Gad (President, Almod Diamonds), Jim Pounds (Executive VP Diamonds, Dominion Diamond Corporation)

The Minister also met with Almod Diamonds for an update on the upcoming opening of their Yellowknife diamond polishing facility.

Participation at the conference is in-line with the GNWT’s Mandate to seek opportunities to increase international trade and encourage local economic diversity.