With the start of the 37th World Diamond Congress just days away, the gathering is set to be among the best-attended and most impressive ever held, reflecting renewed optimism in the diamond trade internationally. In addition to top-level speakers from different areas of the diamond pipeline, the organizers, the Dubai Diamond Exchange, have created a special social programme for spouses of attendees and a spectacular Gala Dinner for the biennial meeting of the World Federation of Diamond Bourses (WFDB) and the International Diamond Manufacturers Association (IDMA). The Congress takes place in Dubai from May 16 to 19.

"The excitement is mounting because this promises to be a momentous meeting," said WFDB President Ernie Blom. "The diamond business seems to have turned a corner and there is a palpable feeling of change. Rough diamond sales in the first months of this year have been very strong, and companies are building up their inventories. "There are many challenges, of course, and we will be addressing them with the utmost seriousness. We are looking forward to some very interesting speeches and debates, as well as networking with colleagues from the across the diamond world. We will be hearing from leading producers, financiers and marketing people amongst others. And our Presidents will also want to add their own specific perspectives in line with the Congress themes of 'Transparency, Responsibility, Sustainability.'

"But there will also be social events for attendees and spouses. They play a special role in creating a perfect Congress atmosphere, and we are all looking forward to meeting colleagues and creating new industry relationships," Blom concluded. For more details about the 37th World Diamond Congress and for registration, please visit the Congress site at: http://www.diamondcongress2016.com