Surat: Trading activity at the world’s largest office complex, the Surat Diamond Bourse (SDB), has gained fresh momentum, with 35 major traders and 65 small traders and brokers commencing operations here on Wednesday. With this, nearly 175 offices are now functional within the bourse premises.

According to an announcement by SDB Vice President and spokesperson Laljibhai Patel, more than 35 prominent traders associated with the city’s traditional diamond markets, Mahidharpura and Mini Bazaar, have officially shifted their businesses to SDB and begun operations from their offices. In addition, other traders have started working from 65 cabins, taking the total number of traders who initiated business activities at SDB on Wednesday to 100. This has led to a notable increase in commercial activity within the bourse.

Laljibhai Patel, Vice Chairman of SDB, said the development represents not merely the opening of offices but also a symbol of the resolve and unity of Surat’s diamond industry. He added that traders have strengthened SDB by fulfilling their commitment, and more participants are expected to join in the coming period, further reinforcing SDB’s position as a global trading hub.

More offices are expected to become operational in the near future. Meanwhile, MP and SDB Chairman Govindbhai Dholakia congratulated traders by presenting bonsai trees as commemorative gifts to members of each office inaugurated on the day.

The diamond sector had earlier faced a slowdown due to the global recession and US tariff policies, which discouraged traders from opening offices at SDB. However, recent tariff changes, zero percent on natural diamonds and 18 percent on lab-grown diamonds are expected to boost demand for diamonds and jewellery, encouraging renewed business activity.

Alongside the operational offices, furnishing work is currently underway in nearly 350 additional offices, indicating further expansion in the coming days.

Diamond brokers and traders who have begun operations expressed satisfaction with the facilities available at SDB, including a centralized air-conditioning system, high-tech security, a customs clearance house, and extensive parking. Members of the brokers’ association noted that conducting trade in a secure and modern environment would enhance the confidence of international buyers, directly benefiting the local diamond industry.

To facilitate connectivity, bus services will operate eight trips daily between 8:00 am and 6:30 pm on three routes:

Mini Bazaar – Railway Station – Majura Gate – Rupali Junction – Sanjivani Circle – Soham Circle – Sarsana – Diamond Bourse

Katargam BRTS Stand – Mini Hira Godhani Circle – Kiran Surgical Hospital – Leela Ba School – Amisha Hotel – Diamond Bourse

Sanjiv Kumar Auditorium – Gujarat Gas Circle – Athwa Gate – Majura Gate – Rupali Junction – Soham Circle – Sarsana – Diamond Bourse

DeshGujarat