Brief
Pakistan forms technical groups to modernise marble sector
Four technical groups were set up to draft recommendations on finishing standards, technology upgrades, value addition and export promotion.
By Felo News Desk · Published
Advisor to the Prime Minister for Industries and Production Haroon Akhtar Khan announced the creation of four technical groups under the steering committee of the National Marble and Natural Stone Policy 2026–2030. The groups will develop recommendations on marble finishing, technology upgradation, value addition and export promotion, the Daily Times reported on 16 October.
What happened
The steering committee met to review challenges in the marble industry, including outdated extraction methods, limited value‑addition and weak access to international markets. Khan said the committee was constituted under the prime minister’s vision to address these long‑standing issues and to unlock export potential.
What the reports add
The Daily Times noted that private‑sector representatives highlighted structural constraints such as conventional blasting that wastes valuable stone, logistical bottlenecks and insufficient modern processing equipment. They called for modern extraction technologies and improved processing to reduce wastage and raise the commercial value of Pakistan’s natural stone resources.
What was said
Haroon Akhtar Khan told the meeting, "The steering committee has been constituted under the vision of the prime minister to address longstanding challenges facing the sector, unlock its export potential and modernise the industry in line with international standards." He also underscored the government’s commitment to work closely with the private sector to improve the business environment and facilitate sustainable growth.
How it came about
The initiative follows the National Marble and Natural Stone Policy 2026–2030, which aims to modernise the sector and enhance its competitiveness abroad. Khan said the marble industry could significantly contribute to industrial growth, employment and foreign‑exchange earnings if it moves beyond conventional extraction toward modern processing, quality finishing and higher‑value products.
Key facts
- Four technical groups were created to draft recommendations on marble finishing, technology upgrades, value addition and export promotion. (dailytimes.com.pk)
- The groups operate under the steering committee of the National Marble and Natural Stone Policy 2026–2030. (dailytimes.com.pk)
- Private‑sector participants cited outdated blasting methods and logistical challenges as major constraints. (dailytimes.com.pk)
- Haroon Akhtar Khan said the initiative aligns with the prime minister’s vision to modernise the marble sector and boost exports. (dailytimes.com.pk)
Sources
- [1] dailytimes.com.pk — originally reported as “Govt sets up technical groups to modernise marble industry”
