In 2024, the Italian natural stone industry recorded a notable growth in exports, reaching a total value of €2,178 million—an increase of 5.8% compared to 2023. This rise reflects both higher international demand and a slight increase in the average export prices.
Growth in Raw Materials and Finished Products
Exports of raw materials (such as marble and granite blocks) experienced a strong upswing, with a 10.7% increase in value, totaling €457 million. At the same time, exports of slabs and finished stone products also grew, albeit more moderately, by 4.5%, reaching €1,721 million.
Key Export Markets: China, India, USA, and Germany
China maintained its position as the largest importer of Italian raw materials, purchasing €228.8 million worth in 2024—an impressive 27.0% increase from the previous year. In contrast, India, Italy’s second-largest customer for raw materials, reduced its imports by 14.7%, totaling €46.6 million.
For slabs and finished stone products, the United States remained the top market, importing €541.9 million worth of products in 2024, up 14.0% from 2023. Germany, the second-largest buyer in this category, showed a slight decline of 1.7%, with imports valued at €125.1 million.
Increase in Average Export Prices
The average export price of Italian stone products also rose in 2024, reaching €1,016.38 per ton (or $1,095.80 USD/ton), up from €997.51 per ton in 2023—an increase of 1.89%. This upward trend reflects both higher quality offerings and Italy’s premium position in the global stone market.
Italy Maintains Leadership in Price per Ton
Compared to other major stone-exporting countries, Italy continues to lead in terms of average export price. As of the latest figures:
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Portugal: $288.87/ton
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Turkey: $319.06/ton
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Brazil: $613.38/ton
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Italy: $1,095.80/ton
These numbers highlight Italy’s focus on high-value, refined natural stone products that command a premium price in the global market.
Source: Markets Trends Analysis Office Confindustria Marmomacchine Association
