National Jeweler reports that the fifty-fifty joint venture between De Beers and the government of Botswana, Diamond Trading Co. Botswana (DTC Botswana), has offered some of its staff the option of voluntary separation (VS), due to "slow growth" anticipated in 2010.

DTC Botswana spokesman Kago Mmopi said that it is currently unclear how many employees will be affected by the decision to offer VS. National Jeweler quote Mpopi: "The objective of embarking on the voluntary separation exercise is to achieve savings on the monthly wage bill. Also, management has put in place VS selection criteria, which will ensure that the diamond company retains the complements and skills needed for the long-term sustainability and continuity of the business. So the number of employees affected will be the result of the above."

Discussions in the matter between the union and management are reportedly ongoing.

Despite the rise in demand, Mmopi said that DTC Botswana does not expect the diamond market to rebound immediately next year.

He noted: "Although there is some optimism for 2010, DTC Botswana is preparing for slow growth in 2010. The 2009 Christmas season will be a key indicator of potential recovery in the diamond market. However, despite some signs of improvement in the stock market, slow recovery post-recession is expected in 2010 and beyond."