Pakistan China stone exports rank third as marble shipments stay steady

Pakistan China stone exports remained stable in 2025, helping Pakistan secure the position of China’s third-largest supplier of construction stone materials. The latest figures from the General Administration of Customs of China (GACC) show consistent demand for marble, onyx, and related products, especially ahead of the Spring Festival.

Türkiye led the category with shipments worth $18.49 million. Bulgaria followed at $16.75 million. Meanwhile, Pakistan exported 31.74 million kilograms of calcareous building stone valued at $8.10 million, placing it third among suppliers.

The ranking falls under HS Code 25152000, which covers calcareous monumental or building stone, including alabaster and onyx. The data highlights Pakistan’s continued presence in the Chinese construction and interior decoration markets.

Exports of marble and travertine cut into rectangular blocks or slabs increased slightly. Shipments rose to $5.41 million in 2025, compared with $5.02 million a year earlier. Likewise, exports of crude or roughly trimmed marble also recorded a modest year-on-year gain.

However, not all categories showed growth. Precious metal ores and concentrates dropped sharply to $2.39 million from $8.62 million in 2024. On the other hand, exports of unworked precious and semi-precious stones reached $2.57 million during the same period.

Granite exports presented a mixed picture. Sales of crude granite declined, yet shipments of cut granite improved. This shift suggests a gradual move toward value-added stone products rather than raw material exports.

Industry participants say seasonal demand plays an important role. Muhammad Abid, owner of Bilal Enterprises, noted that interest in Pakistani marble and onyx usually rises before the Chinese New Year. Vendors often display products carved with Chinese characters, which attract strong customer attention.

He added that the Year of the Horse, beginning with the Chinese New Year on February 17, boosted sales of themed marble and onyx items. According to Abid, customers often respond positively once they learn the products come from Pakistan, citing both quality and goodwill toward the country.

Overall, Pakistan China stone exports in 2025 reflect steady market demand, with growth mainly seen in processed marble products. The trend indicates cautious progress toward higher-value exports while maintaining a stable foothold in China’s competitive stone market.