The article presents a cutting force model for trimming operations of CFRP laminate with diamond abrasive cutters. Those tools are more and more encountered on industrial applications of CFRP trimming, due to their abrasion resistance and their low cost. Contrary to endmills, they consist of a large number of cutting grits, randomly distributed around the tool. To tackle the issue, a continuous model of tool engagement is proposed. Validity of the approach is verified. A mechanical model of cutting forces, adapted to CFRP laminate, is then presented. The evolution of specific cutting coefficient in relation to fibres orientation is investigated through a piecewise constant model. It leads to the proposal of a sine model for the specific cutting coefficients. The simulated forces are in good agreement with the experimental results of cutting tests, carried out in multidirectional CFRP laminate for different fibres orientation and widths of cut. Cutting mechanisms are finally discussed depending on fibres orientation. A. Boudelier, M. Ritou, S. Garnier, B. Furet, Cutting force model for machining of CFRP laminate with diamond abrasive cutter, Production Engineering, 2018. http://dx.