The National Marble and Natural Stone Policy 2026–2030 aims to improve finishing standards, reduce material wastage, upgrade technology and expand international market access.
Pakistan is moving to modernise its marble and natural stone industry through a new initiative aimed at improving production quality, increasing value addition and strengthening exports. Adviser to the Prime Minister for Industries and Production Haroon Akhtar Khan has established four technical groups to develop recommendations for the sector’s development.
The groups have been formed under the steering committee overseeing the National Marble and Natural Stone Policy 2026–2030. Their work will focus on marble finishing standards, technology upgrades, value-added products and export promotion to improve the industry’s competitiveness in international markets.
During a meeting of the steering committee, Haroon Akhtar Khan reviewed the challenges faced by the industry and discussed measures to modernise extraction and processing practices. He said the initiative reflected the prime minister’s vision of addressing longstanding issues and unlocking the export potential of Pakistan’s natural stone resources.
The adviser highlighted that the marble industry could contribute significantly to industrial growth, employment generation and foreign exchange earnings. However, he stressed that achieving these benefits would require a shift from traditional extraction methods towards advanced processing technologies and higher-quality finished products.
Industry representatives identified outdated quarrying techniques, limited access to modern machinery, transportation difficulties and inadequate international market access as major obstacles to growth.
Participants particularly highlighted the losses associated with conventional blasting methods used during marble extraction. They said these practices often damage valuable stone and increase wastage, reducing productivity and limiting the commercial value of the country’s natural resources.
The technical groups are expected to identify practical solutions to these challenges while recommending improvements in processing facilities, product quality and finishing techniques.
Stakeholders also called for dedicated exhibitions to promote Pakistani marble and natural stone products to international buyers. Such events could help manufacturers establish business connections, explore new markets and generate export opportunities.
The meeting further highlighted the potential of marble handicrafts and intricately designed products, which could create additional business opportunities for local artisans and manufacturers. Participants also stressed the importance of promoting marble’s durability and long-term utility in construction and architectural projects.
Haroon reaffirmed the government’s commitment to working with private-sector stakeholders to improve the business environment and develop practical solutions for sustainable growth. The meeting was attended by Coordinator to the Prime Minister on Commerce and Industry Rana Ihsan Afzal, Industries and Production Secretary Ahsan Ali Mangi, the chief executive officer of the Pakistan Stone Development Company (PASDEC), senior ministry officials and private-sector representatives.