The marble industry in Carrara is facing significant price hikes as new rates have been set by Giuseppe Bruschi, Director of the Marble Department of the Municipality of Carrara. The revised prices, reflecting increases ranging from 15% to 30%, will remain in effect for the next four years, until the end of 2028. These values will serve as the basis for calculating the production value of each quarry.
A New Approach by the Marble Observatory
For the first time, the process of determining prices has been based on studies conducted by the Marble Observatory, a newly established body created through collaboration between the local government, the Chamber of Commerce of North-West Tuscany, and the Zona Industriale Apuana Consortium.
The studies analyzed market data for various marble types, considering the quality of extracted blocks (shaped, semi-shaped, and unshaped).
According to the new rates, the increase is particularly notable in the most valuable marble varieties, such as first-choice Calacatta and Statuario. For example, prices for these blocks rose from €5,905 per ton in 2020 to €7,677 per ton in 2024, marking a 30% increase. Similar hikes were recorded for other varieties, including first-choice Cremo, Paonazzo, Venatino, and Zebrino.
Implications for Management and Taxation
Carrara’s mayor, Serena Arrighi, explained that the new prices will allow municipal offices to more accurately assess the value of each quarry. This, in turn, will determine the financial contributions and extraction fees owed by quarry operators.
“This change represents a complete innovation, as it is based on detailed and scientifically validated studies. The Marble Observatory now provides us with more precise and updated data on the extraction industry and the pricing of each material. This allows us to create fairer and more transparent assessment processes,” the mayor stated.
Impact on the Industry
The price increases are expected to affect both producers and traders, potentially leading to higher end-market prices. However, the improved accuracy of data may lead to more balanced long-term management of the region’s natural resources.
Carrara, internationally renowned for its high-quality marble, continues to set new standards in the industry for resource management and product marketing.
