In early 2026, the Italian stone and stone-technology industry further strengthened its global positioning through a structured and coordinated international promotion strategy, confirming its long-term commitment to internationalisation and market diversification. Guided by Confindustria Marmomacchine and developed in close cooperation with the Italian Trade Agency (ITA/ICE), these initiatives reflected a shared vision aimed at enhancing the visibility, competitiveness and perceived value of the Italian stone supply chain worldwide.
At the core of this approach was the promotion of a cohesive national presence across key international markets, combining institutional support with the entrepreneurial strength of Italian companies. Trade fairs once again represented a strategic tool within this framework, not only as commercial platforms but also as opportunities to reinforce the identity of the Italian stone sector as a benchmark for quality, innovation, design and technological know-how.
In mature markets such as North America, the Italian industry continued to consolidate its leadership. Participation in major international exhibitions in the United States allowed Italian companies to reaffirm their strong positioning in a market that remains the primary destination for sector exports. According to industry data, Italian stone exports to the US exceeded €490 million in the first nine months of 2025, confirming the resilience and attractiveness of Italian products even in a complex trade environment.
At the same time, the industry pursued growth opportunities in high-potential regions, particularly in the Middle East, where large-scale investments in infrastructure, residential and energy projects are driving sustained demand for natural stone and advanced processing technologies. The Saudi market, in particular, continued to stand out as a strategic hub for the region, with Italian exports reaching approximately €120 million in 2025 across finished and semi-finished products, raw materials and machinery.
Across these different geographic contexts, the Italian collective presence consistently reflected the breadth and integration of the national supply chain, encompassing quarrying, processing, design-oriented solutions and cutting-edge technologies. Shared institutional spaces and coordinated promotional actions facilitated dialogue with international stakeholders, encouraged business networking and supported the development of new commercial partnerships.
Supported by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MAECI), these initiatives highlighted the effectiveness of a long-term, market-oriented promotion strategy. By strengthening its presence in established markets while actively investing in emerging and high-growth regions, the Italian stone industry continues to position itself as a global reference point, capable of combining tradition and innovation in response to evolving international demand.
