Which country hosted the International Diamond Conference titled Mines to Market 2017?

Introduction / Context:
The question refers to the International Diamond Conference themed Mines to Market 2017. Such conferences bring together stakeholders from mining, cutting, polishing, trading and retail segments of the diamond industry. Identifying the host country reflects knowledge of India s role in the global diamond value chain and current affairs in the economic domain.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The event mentioned is the International Diamond Conference Mines to Market 2017.
• The question asks which country hosted this conference.
• The options list several countries that are key players in the diamond industry.

Concept / Approach:
India is a major centre for diamond cutting and polishing, with cities like Surat and Mumbai playing a crucial role in the global trade. Mines to Market 2017 was organised in India to highlight the country s position from processing to marketing. While countries such as South Africa and Namibia are important for diamond mining and Belgium is known for trading, the specific conference named in the question was actually hosted in India.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recognise that Mines to Market suggests a focus on the entire value chain from mining to retail sale. Step 2: Recall that India is widely known as a world centre for cutting and polishing diamonds, particularly in Surat and Mumbai. Step 3: Remember from current affairs that the International Diamond Conference Mines to Market 2017 took place in India to showcase its strengths in processing and trading. Step 4: Compare this knowledge with the options and select India as the host country.

Verification / Alternative check:
If one checks reports from industry bodies or official government releases related to diamonds, they clearly mention that India hosted the Mines to Market 2017 conference. The presence of international delegates in Indian cities and coverage by Indian business media confirm this fact. Other listed countries may host different diamond events, but not this particular conference with this exact title and year.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
South Africa: Although a major diamond producer, South Africa did not host the Mines to Market 2017 conference mentioned here. Namibia: This is also a diamond producing nation, but it was not the venue for this specific conference. Japan: Japan is a large consumer market but the question refers to a diamond industry event tied to mining and polishing centres, not held there. Belgium: Antwerp in Belgium is a famous diamond trading hub, yet the Mines to Market 2017 conference cited in the question was not held there.

Common Pitfalls:
Candidates sometimes think that because South Africa and Namibia have mines, they must host every mining related conference. Others associate diamonds mainly with Belgium due to trading history and therefore choose Belgium by habit. The key is to match the exact title and year of the event, which clearly relate to an Indian initiative spotlighting its processing capabilities.

Final Answer:
The International Diamond Conference Mines to Market 2017 was hosted by India.