Archive · 20 Jan 2026
Gujarat Government Appeals to Traders for Surat Diamond Bourse
The Gujarat government is trying to get diamond traders to move their businesses to the Surat Diamond Bourse, which is the world's largest office building.
The building has many offices but not many people are using them.
The government says it's a great place to do business, but some traders say it's too far and expensive.
They also say that the market for diamonds isn't doing well right now because of wars and high taxes in other countries.
Some traders have promised to move, but others think it won't help much until the market gets better.
Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi met with diamond traders to encourage them to open shops at the Surat Diamond Bourse (SDB).
The SDB, inaugurated in December 2023, has over 4,500 offices but remains largely unoccupied.
Traders cite poor international demand, high tariffs, and the distance from key trading areas as reasons for low interest.
Some traders have promised to open shops at SDB from February 18, while others believe the market needs to stabilize first.
Previous attempts to attract traders, including bus services and appeals from industry leaders, have had little success.
- Who
- Gujarat government, diamond traders, Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi, BJP MP Govind Dholakia
- What
- Appeal to traders to open shops at Surat Diamond Bourse (SDB)
- When
- Meeting held on Monday, proposed opening date is February 18
- Where
- Surat, Gujarat, India
- Why
- To boost occupancy and convert Surat into a global diamond trading hub
- Location
- Surat, Gujarat, India
- Inauguration Date
- December 2023
- Total Floor Area
- 67 lakh square feet
- Number of Offices
- Over 4,500
- Key Trading Areas
- Katargam, Varachha, Mahidharpura
- Distance from Key Areas
- Over 18 km
- Current Occupancy
- Low, around 15-20 offices open
- Proposed Opening Date
- February 18