Companies to showcase Omani marbles in Italy

Nasima Al Balushi

Muscat: Ithraa will be heading A delegation of Omani stone and marble producers to Verona, Italy, for the annual Marmomacc International TRADE Fair for stone, design and technology, scheduled to be held from September 24 to 27.

This is the fifth time Oman will be participating at Marmomacc, an event that is considered by many to be the world's leading stone and marble TRADE fair. In fact, it brings together producers, suppliers, distributors and buyers from more than 50 countries. 

"Over the years, our participation has produced some excellent commercial results for Omani firms. Indeed, it's a trade fair that offers local manufacturers the opportunity to network with both existing as well potential buyers," said Nasima Al Balushi, Ithraa's director-general (Export Development). 

This year's list of Omani exhibitors includes Al Turki Enterprises, Hamood Al Rashidi & Bros TRADING Company, Gulf Mining Materials Company, Gulf Stone Company, Services & Trade Marble and Mining, Al Shanfari Marble Company and Al Zerabi TRADING Establishment. 

In demand
"Omani stone and marble is globally renowned for its quality and as a result is in great demand. In fact, you'll find Omani stone in the Dubai Metro as well as at London's Heathrow Airport. Our product has developed a very strong brand. It is important that we maximise the opportunities offered in Verona and build on the growing success of Omani stone and marble." 

Omani stone exports has increased rapidly over the years due to the high quality of natural stone and advanced extraction techniques. In 2013 Oman's total export of building stone was valued at $124 million with the main trading partners including  India, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, China, Singapore, Qatar, South Korea, Lebanon, the United Kingdom and Algeria.