The international seminar organized by Stonegal brought together yesterday at the Vigo Exhibition Institute (IFEVI) professionals, institutional representatives, and high-profile international speakers to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing the natural stone sector in the global market.
Held as part of the first edition of Stonegal, the event welcomed representatives from the United Arab Emirates, Morocco, Mexico, France, and Germany, coming from fields such as architecture, engineering, and urban development. It served as a strategic meeting point between Galician and international companies.
Among the distinguished participants were Juan Roldán (American University of Sharjah), M’hamed Bechaouch (Be Green Architecture), Elmehdi Lotfi (Buildink), Nicolas Bertoux (sculptor and designer), Flavio Marabelli (Confindustria Marmomacchine), and Carlos González Lobo (architect and urban planner).
Throughout the day, emphasis was placed on the growing interest in Galician granite for large-scale architectural and urban development projects, both in Europe and the Middle East.
Speakers highlighted the sustainability, aesthetic versatility, and long-term durability of natural stone, while also stressing the need to advance in environmental certifications and technical solutions that meet the current demands of modern cities.
Alejandro Miras, director of Stonegal, noted: “The international nature of this fair is not just a statement of intent, it’s a tangible reality reflected in the trade missions, the quality of invited experts, and the business opportunities already taking shape. Galicia has much to offer the world in natural stone, and this seminar has proven that beyond doubt.”
For his part, José Ángel Lorenzo, Secretary General of the Granite Cluster, stated: “Internationalization is not an option — it is the natural path for a consolidated, competitive, and sustainable sector like ours. This seminar helped strengthen ties with key markets, understand global trends, and position Galicia as a European benchmark for innovation in natural stone.”
