In a significant development for India's stone industry, Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma is set to inaugurate the 13th edition of India Stonemart 2026 on Thursday in Jaipur. This event comes at a pivotal moment as the country's export landscape undergoes a transformative shift, driven by a sharp reduction in US tariffs and the anticipated implementation of a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the European Union.
Event Details and Key Participants
The four-day international exhibition will run from Thursday until February 8, providing a crucial platform for Rajasthan's stone sector to reconnect with international buyers and integrate more deeply into the global supply chain. The inauguration ceremony will see the participation of several high-profile figures, including Industry Minister Rajyavardhan Rathore, Chief Secretary V Srinivas, and leaders from Laghu Udyog Bharati such as Madhusudan Dadu and Prakash Chandra. Senior officials from the industries department and RIICO will also be present to mark the commencement of this prestigious event.
Impact of Trade Policy Changes
The timing of India Stonemart 2026 is particularly strategic, aligning with recent trade policy developments that are poised to reshape export dynamics. The reduction in US tariffs on Indian products has revitalized the competitiveness of stone and value-added stone products in what is one of the world's largest export markets. Concurrently, the proposed India–EU FTA is expected to lower duties and facilitate smoother market access for Indian exporters across Europe, where natural stone is widely utilized in architecture, infrastructure projects, and high-end interior designs.
Opportunities for Rajasthan's Stone Industry
Rajasthan, which serves as the backbone of India's stone exports, stands to gain substantially from these favorable trade conditions. The state's stone industry is anticipated to experience a surge in fresh demand, improved price realization, and opportunities for securing long-term contracts with international partners. India Stonemart 2026 is envisioned as a launchpad for exporters and Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) to engage directly with buyers from the US, EU, and other key global markets, leveraging the newly advantageous trade environment to expand their reach and enhance profitability.
This edition of the exhibition not only highlights the resilience and potential of India's stone sector but also underscores the government's commitment to fostering international trade relationships and supporting local industries in navigating global economic shifts. As stakeholders gather in Jaipur, the event promises to catalyze growth and innovation in a sector that is integral to both Rajasthan's economy and India's export ambitions.
