12th March, 2003, ALROSA shipped its first four lots of rough diamonds this year under sales contracts with De Beers. The shipments were made in accordance with the recent resolution of the Russian government granting ALROSA a 5-year quota for export of rough diamonds.

Another significant thing about the shipments is that each of the lots was accompanied by a certificate issued in compliance with the Kimberly Process Certification Scheme (KPCS), as prescribed by Regulation of the Government of the Russian Federation 67 of 6th February, 2003.

ALROSA Co. Ltd. wishes to express its sincere gratitude to the Russian Ministry of Finance, GOKHRAN (Russia State Depository), State Customs Committee for their prompt action and efficient work to introduce state control and certification procedures, as well as customs clearance of diamond exports in line with KPSC requirements aimed to prevent trade in ‘conflict’ diamonds. the Russian government