High-Level Meeting Addresses Challenges in Pakistan’s Marble Sector
A high-level meeting was recently held in Islamabad, where Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Industries and Production, Haroon Akhtar Khan, engaged with representatives from the All Pakistan Marble Industry Association and the Pakistan Stone Development Company (PASDEC). The primary focus of the discussion was on addressing the challenges faced by the marble sector, particularly in terms of exports, value addition, and the need for incentives and facilitation measures.
During the meeting, participants highlighted several bottlenecks that have been hindering the growth of the marble industry. These include issues related to export procedures, lack of value addition in the production process, and limited access to modern technology. Haroon Akhtar Khan emphasized the importance of the marble sector in contributing to Pakistan’s economic growth and announced that the sector will be declared an industry. This move is expected to provide a structured framework for its development and ensure better policy support.
The SAPM also mentioned that a National Marble Policy is set to be introduced soon. This policy aims to address the existing challenges and promote sustainable industrial growth. He stressed that Pakistan’s marble is of world-class quality and that there is significant potential to increase exports through value addition and improved branding strategies.
Government Support for Industrial Growth
Haroon Akhtar Khan reiterated the government’s commitment to working closely with industrial stakeholders to implement policy-level reforms. These reforms are intended to enhance competitiveness and productivity within the marble sector. He pointed out that stabilizing the industry could lead to the creation of new employment opportunities, especially in regions where marble extraction and processing are prevalent.
The SAPM also emphasized the importance of training in modern skills and providing technical assistance to workers in the marble industry. He believes that such initiatives will make the sector more efficient and competitive on a global scale. Furthermore, he encouraged PASDEC and the private sector to adopt modern technology and innovation in marble processing to improve efficiency and reduce waste.
Collaboration with Italy for Technology Transfer
In addition to domestic efforts, Haroon Akhtar Khan directed PASDEC and the Marble Association to prepare proposals for collaboration with Italy. The focus of this collaboration would be on technology transfer, capacity building, and export enhancement. Italy is known for its advanced techniques in stone processing, and this partnership could bring significant benefits to Pakistan’s marble industry.
The SAPM expressed confidence that such collaborations would not only improve the quality of marble products but also open up new markets for Pakistani exports. He urged the industry associations to work closely with the government to explore these opportunities and develop actionable plans for implementation.
Future Prospects for the Marble Sector
With the introduction of the National Marble Policy and increased government support, the future of Pakistan’s marble sector looks promising. The emphasis on value addition, branding, and technological advancement is expected to position the industry as a key contributor to the country’s economy.
Moreover, the focus on training and skill development will ensure that the workforce is equipped with the necessary knowledge to meet international standards. This, in turn, will help in enhancing the global competitiveness of Pakistani marble products.
As the sector continues to evolve, it is crucial for all stakeholders—government, industry associations, and private enterprises—to collaborate effectively. By working together, they can overcome existing challenges and unlock the full potential of Pakistan’s marble industry.