As the global natural stone market continues to adapt to shifting demand patterns and geopolitical pressures, Turkey—one of the world’s leading marble exporters—is entering a pivotal phase in its trade strategy. The new Stonenews.eu study, titled “Turkey’s Marble Exports – Q1 2025”, provides a data-driven analysis of the trends shaping the country’s marble sector during a period of dynamic transformation.
High Value, Lower Volume: Turkey’s Refined Export Model
In Q1 2025, Turkey’s marble exports reached $407.9 million, marking a 4.3% increase in value compared to the same period in 2024. However, the exported volume dropped by 1.6%, totaling 1,153,731 tons—the lowest figure recorded in the past decade. This divergence between value and quantity reflects a broader, strategic shift in Turkey’s approach: less focus on raw volumes, more emphasis on higher value-added products.
The data shows that exported volumes have regressed to levels last seen in 2016, and are down 28% compared to 2015. Yet, the 2025 export value stands as the second-highest in the last ten years, only trailing the 2022 peak. This pattern suggests that Turkey is successfully offsetting falling volumes by enhancing product value.
A Deliberate Repositioning in Global Marble Trade
The report highlights that Turkey is gradually scaling back its exports of raw marble, especially to China, its traditionally largest market. Instead, there is growing emphasis on processed products with higher added value, aligning with the evolving demands of international buyers. The United States remains the top destination, while markets like Iraq, Saudi Arabia, France, the UAE, and Libya are emerging as important players in Turkey’s diversified export portfolio.
While the shift toward premium segments is evident, products priced above €1000/ton still represent a small share of total exports. Nevertheless, the trend toward quality over quantity is unmistakable—and increasingly vital.
Risks of Over-Concentration and Emerging Geopolitical Frictions
Despite the evolving strategy, structural vulnerabilities remain. China and India still account for 86.2% of the value and 79.4% of the quantity of Turkey’s raw marble exports in Q1 2025. This overdependence exposes the industry to significant geopolitical and economic risks.
Of particular concern are recent tensions between Turkey and India, including reports of informal trade boycotts by Indian importers. Although the full impact has yet to unfold, these developments underline the fragility of even long-standing trade relationships when political factors come into play.
Meanwhile, fluctuations in smaller markets offer additional insight into global volatility. Libya and Qatar recorded strong rebounds, while exports to Israel dropped to zero, likely due to geopolitical circumstances.
What the Report Includes:
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Comparative statistical analysis of Turkish marble exports from 2015 to 2025 (Q1 data)
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Detailed breakdown by export category (raw vs processed), destination countries, and pricing tiers
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Graphs and charts illustrating volume, value, and average price per ton trends
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Strategic insights into geopolitical and market dynamics affecting Turkey’s positioning
Key Questions Answered:
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How is Turkey adapting to a more competitive and uncertain global marble market?
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What role do pricing strategies and product types play in export performance?
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Which markets are rising, and which are in decline?
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How resilient is Turkey’s current export model to future shocks?
Who Is It For?
This report is tailored for:
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Marble quarrying and processing companies
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Exporters and trade professionals
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Trade associations and policy analysts
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Investors and market strategists seeking to understand structural market shifts
As part of Stonenews.eu’s 2025 Annual Report Series (Q1–Q4), this in-depth study offers a critical perspective for stakeholders navigating a transforming marble export landscape.
To learn more or request access to the full report, contact us at [email protected].
