At a time when Turkey is seeking to restructure its export portfolio in the marble sector in order to reduce its dependence on the Chinese market, India has emerged as a key trade partner. In 2024, Turkey’s marble exports to India reached $144.9 million, totaling 845,779 tons. This accounts for 7.96% of the total value and 14.9% of the total volume of Turkish marble exports, making India one of Turkey’s most important markets.
The picture becomes even more striking when focusing on raw marble exports, where Turkey stands out as the undisputed leader in supplying the Indian market. In 2024, Turkish exports of raw marble to India amounted to $142.3 million and 841,730 tons, representing 23.63% of Turkey’s global value and 27.04% of its export volume in this category.
From India’s perspective, the dependence is even greater. According to the most recent data, 60.67% of the value and 65.10% of the quantity of India’s total raw marble imports came from Turkey. Turkish marble remains highly popular due to its wide range of colors, consistent quality, and competitive pricing—traits that make it a top choice for processors and suppliers in major hubs like Udaipur, Kishangarh, Rajsamand, and Chittorgarh.
However, the stability of this trade relationship is coming under pressure. Following geopolitical developments in the wider South Asian region, the Udaipur Marble Processors Association announced its intention to temporarily halt imports from Turkey. Although no official government measures have been implemented yet, a letter sent to Prime Minister Narendra Modi includes calls for a tougher stance towards Turkey—raising concern among businesses and industries that rely heavily on Turkish raw materials.
Any disruption in the smooth flow of trade between the two countries could have broader implications for India’s marble supply chain, particularly amid rising demand from construction and architectural sectors. At the same time, India remains a strategic market for Turkey as it seeks to reposition its global marble trade routes.
How this situation unfolds remains to be seen. Nonetheless, maintaining trade cooperation in the marble sector is of vital importance for both India and Turkey—economically and strategically.
