Surat Diamond Bourse Inaugurated by PM Modi, Becomes World’s Largest Hub for Diamond Trade

Surat: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Surat Diamond Bourse in Gujarat on Sunday, marking the world’s largest office building. The Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) stated that the facility is set to become the global hub for the diamond and jewellery trade. The Surat Diamond Bourse features a cutting-edge ‘Customs Clearance House’ for efficient import and export processes, a jewellery mall catering to retail needs, and provisions for international banking alongside secure vaults.

Recognized by the Guinness World Records in August as the largest office building globally, the Surat Diamond Bourse is a key component of the Diamond Research and Mercantile (DREAM) City. The construction, initiated in February 2015, concluded in 2022, with a total expenditure of around Rs 3,500 crore. Encompassing 67 lakh square feet of floor space, the megastructure accommodates nearly 4,500 diamond trading offices.

Situated on a sprawling 35.54-acre plot, the building comprises nine ground towers and 15 floors, offering office spaces ranging from 300 sq ft to 1 lakh sq ft. Linked by a central spine, the nine rectangular towers boast a platinum ranking from the Indian Green Building Council (IGBC).

Billionaire diamond trader Vallabhbhai Lakhani, Director of Kiran Gems, has relocated his Rs 17,000-crore business to the Diamond Bourse. Additionally, he is developing a mini-township to house his employees. The inauguration marks a significant milestone in establishing Surat as a global powerhouse in the diamond and jewellery business.