The Department of Mineral Resources in South Africa has granted De Beers a temporary exemption for rough diamond exportation to Botswana. The relaxation by the SA government followed pressure from De Beers, who last week approached the Pretoria High Court regarding the matter of its Section 74 rough diamond export exemption. De Beers confirmed the developments to The Patriot on Sunday this week, saying parallel to the court proceedings, they are continuing to seek a solution through engagement directly with the Department of Mineral Resources. "The legal process regarding the 12 months exemption continues. As this is a matter that is before the court, it would be inappropriate to comment further," said Nicole Senuku, Corporate Affairs Specialist in a response. Botswana's Minister of Mineral Resources, Green Technology and Energy Security Sadique Kebonang was not available to comment on the developments between the two countries. Meanwhile, De Beers will publish the results of the current Sight (Cycle 5 rough diamond sales) on Tuesday 20th June.
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