Cairo Governor Dr. Ibrahim Saber attended the inauguration ceremony of the second edition of the International Exhibition for Marble, Granite, and Natural Stone, “Stone Africa Expo 2026,” which is being held under the auspices of the Ministry of Industry from 12 to 15 November at the Cairo International Convention and Exhibition Center in Nasr City. The exhibition features the participation of more than 100 specialized companies and approximately 200 international buyers from 40 countries, in addition to major companies and factories operating in Egypt’s marble, granite, and natural stone sector.
During the ceremony, Governor Saber stated that the Egyptian government, under President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, prioritizes the development of the national industry, the expansion of exports, and the opening of new markets for Egyptian marble products. He added that the governorate is diligently working to increase exports from the Shaq al-Thoaban industrial zone, one of the largest industrial hubs for marble and granite, by enhancing the industry, improving production efficiency, and strengthening the competitiveness of Egyptian products in global markets.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by Dr. Nahed Youssef, Chairperson of the Industrial Development Authority (IDA); Ahmed Hafez, Chairman of the Building Materials Export Council; Mohammad El-Saeedy, Minister of Industry and Mining in Benghazi; Saleh Al-Mabrouk, Chairman of the Libyan Federation of Industries Committee; Ambassador Suresh K. Reddy, Ambassador of India to Egypt; Ambassador Salih Mutlu Şen, Ambassador of Türkiye to Egypt; and Sayed Abaza, Chairman of the Marble Manufacturers Division, in addition to a host of Arab and foreign ambassadors, industry executives, heads of industrial chambers, and representatives of Egyptian and international companies.
Following the inauguration, Governor Saber visited the exhibition’s booths and checked the diverse products they offer in the marble, granite, and natural stone industries. He was also briefed on the latest raw materials, designs, and manufactured products, as well as the companies’ modern manufacturing and technological capabilities
Moreover, the governor received a briefing from company representatives on the various stages of production and manufacturing, the latest machinery and equipment used in cutting, processing, polishing, and finishing marble and granite, and the modern technologies that contribute to improving product quality and increasing production efficiency. He was also briefed on the production and export capabilities of the participating companies and their expertise in natural stone manufacturing and product development.
Saber further said the Shaq al-Thoaban industrial zone is a cornerstone of the marble and granite industry, adding that Egypt has a prominent position and strong reputation in global markets. It also possesses diverse natural resources and technical and manufacturing expertise, which qualify it to compete on the global stage.
The governor added that what he witnessed during his tour of the exhibition reflects the major progress in the marble and granite industry. He also commended the excellence of the slabs, products, and designs on display, as well as the artistic elements and diverse applications in wall finishes, facades, flooring, and architectural designs. He said that highlights the significant capabilities and outstanding expertise of Egyptian companies in this field.
Saber also said that it is important to utilize the marble and granite waste by recycling it and incorporating it into other industries and products, which would maximize the economic value of raw materials, reduce waste, and protect the environment. He added that the state, represented by the Ministry of Industry and in coordination with the government, is working to support this strategy. The strategy aligns with the directives of the political leadership to promote industrial development and maximize the utilization of available resources.
Furthermore, the governor expressed his pleasure with the strong international participation at the exhibition, adding that the expo featured the presence of several ambassadors from various countries, as well as a diverse range of pavilions and exhibiting companies. He also said this broad international participation reflects the exhibition’s increasing significance and status. It also provides a valuable opportunity to strengthen economic and trade cooperation and open new horizons for Egyptian marble and granite exports.
The governor further stated that specialized international exhibitions serve as an important platform for connecting manufacturers, investors, and buyers from around the world. It also promotes the exchange of expertise and sheds light on the latest manufacturing technologies and supports national industry, encourages investment, and expands export opportunities.
🖋️ Source: Media department, Cairo Governorate
