By Anil Taneja,
World, July 2, 2025
Uncertainty, not just related to the tariffs to be imposed by US, but also weak economic growth almost everywhere, now consider the huge oversupply of slabs, means the mood is not good even during the months which are considered to be the peak season for business.
Brazil, July 2, 2025
The local market for construction is very strong with many ongoing projects going on all over the country. Stone companies working in the local market are doing well. The world wide popularity of the quartzite Taj Mahal, available in seemingly unlimited quantities, ensures the Brazilian factories are, by and large, busy. Exports to USA have remained stable inspite of the uncertainty.
Central / East Europe,, July 2, 2025
The bright spot is eastern EU countries where the business mood is upbeat. The stone industry in Poland is doing well but there is a shortage of workers. Other countries continue to be stable markets.
China, July 2, 2025
A very difficult situation for the traditional stone companies which are facing severe price pressures even by Chinese standards of ruthless competition. But many stone companies are now focusing on high design component in their offerings and on furniture in natural stone. There seems to be a general feeling that Chinese machinery manufacturers have caught up with the Italians in technology, but there are simply not enough investments currently taking place anywhere.
Far East, July 2, 2025
The East Asian countries economies are noting the effect of the slowdown in China and the huge oversupply of stone of all varieties. Indonesia is doing well.
India, July 2, 2025
The local market looks solid. Those companies working with local materials and selling in the local market are doing very well. Those working with imported blocks are not doing badly even though they are complaining. The companies which are export focused, are struggling.
Latin America, July 2, 2025
México is a fairly dynamic market. Other countries are doing reasonably well.
Middle East and North Africa, July 2, 2025
There are several big size projects going on in the Gulf countries, especially in Saudi Arabia and the Emirates. But not everyone is able to sell in these markets.The North African countries are positioned in the low priced segment, which is never a good place to be in.
U.S.A., July 2, 2025
The uncertainty around the tariffs and the relatively high interest rates means the construction industry has not taken off to the extent expected, even though there is real demand. Will there be more clarity after 9 July when, supposedly, the definite tariffs will be announced?
Western Europe, July 2, 2025
This is being a year of weak demand, and the severe shortage of skilled workers only makes everything worse. South Europe is in a better situation.
