Belgium gradually easing out of lockdown
Report by ICA Ambassador to Belgium According to the ICA report by Maxim Van Oppens, ‘After gradually easing out of lockdown we, like all countries, are experiencing a rise in Covid-19 cases. Currently Antwerp has the status of a high-risk area.’ As the gemstone and diamond trade primarily takes place there, the entire sector is heavily affected. Key differences in the trade in comparison to our last update derived. Mouth masks are recommended everywhere in Belgium and mandatory in Antwerp not only on public transport or inside buildings but whenever one steps outside. Shops are open, but only groups of maximum two persons may enter. Shoppers, who break that rule, get fined. Client visits in neighbouring countries is possible with a negative Covid-19 test. Clients prefer remote ways of purchasing their stones not only for commercial but for fine quality stones as well. The decrease in spontaneous purchases is in not a small part compensated by rising average purchase numbers. C