Diamond production by Debswana, the joint venture between diamond giant De Beers and the Botswana government, fell to 17.7 million carats in 2009, down from 32.3 million carats in 2008, reports PolishedPrices.

The company’s diamond sales declined to $2.8 billion from $1.7 billion, according to a report.

“The results are below the 2008 revenue mark primarily due to the global financial crisis, which had an impact on world sales,” explains Debswana Managing Director Blackie Marole, who is optimistic for the coming year. “First quarter sales are already showing positive signs,” said Marole, reports PolishedPrices.