CBS: Israel's diamond export in May up 64%

The Central Bureau of Statistics (CBS) reported last week that Israel’s polished diamond exports rose 64% year on year to US$601 million in May 2010.
 
Rough diamond exports grew 47% to US$250.9 million.
 
Combined imports of polished and rough diamonds increased 95% to US$647.1 million, as Israel’s net diamond account, representing total exports less total imports, remained flat at $204.8 million during the month.
 
During the first five months of the year, polished diamond exports rose 82% to US$2.55 billion, while rough diamond exports increased 118% to US$1.31 billion. Total imports grew 124% to US$2.96 billion as Israel’s net diamond account climbed 31% to US$899.5 million.