Stone Core Reinforces Strategic Vision on the Challenges and Opportunities Facing the Natural Stone Industry

Management, regulatory environment, international trade, and business development were among the topics discussed during the event held in Vitória, Espírito Santo.

The need for companies to prepare for an increasingly dynamic and demanding business environment was at the center of discussions during the 3rd edition of Stone Core – National Meeting of Leaders of the Natural Stone Industry, held on June 16 in Vitória, Espírito Santo.

Organized by the Brazilian Natural Stone Association (Centrorochas), the event brought together business leaders and executives from across the sector to discuss trends, share experiences, and explore the factors shaping the development of Brazil’s natural stone industry.

Under the theme “Strategic Vision: Global Trends and Expansion Opportunities for the Natural Stone Industry,” the program encouraged discussions on the key factors shaping the sector’s development, ranging from management and regulatory issues to market trends, international trade, and growth opportunities.

International Scenario and Strategic Initiatives

Opening the event, Centrorochas President Tales Machado emphasized the importance of strengthening companies’ ability to adapt to the changes reshaping the business environment in Brazil and abroad.

“The main takeaway from this event is that companies must be increasingly prepared to navigate change. Whether in the Brazilian market, the international arena, or the regulatory environment, those who can anticipate developments and make decisions with a long-term perspective will be better positioned to grow in the years ahead,” he said.

Among the topics discussed was the international landscape and its implications for Brazil’s natural stone industry. In a panel led by Centrorochas Vice President Fábio Cruz, participants explored the ongoing shifts in global trade and strategies to expand the sector’s international presence. The presentation highlighted opportunities in markets such as Mexico, the Middle East, and North Africa, as well as the importance of demand-generation initiatives and the diversification of export destinations for Brazilian natural stones.

The program also featured updates on initiatives carried out by Centrorochas in partnership with ApexBrasil through the sectoral program It’s Natural – Brazilian Natural Stone, including trade promotion activities, market intelligence efforts, and actions aimed at strengthening the sector’s presence in strategic markets.

Management, Market Insights, and Growth Opportunities

Another highlight of the event was the presentation of the results of the Natural Stone Industry Management Maturity Survey, developed by Centrorochas in partnership with EMEG Consultoria. The study provided an overview of the development stage of participating companies and encouraged discussions on governance, planning, business processes, and organizational development.

Mercosur’s evolving trade agenda was also among the topics discussed during the event. In a presentation led by economist Felipe Storch, participants explored the opportunities arising from trade agreements already concluded or currently under negotiation with markets such as the European Union, EFTA, Canada, the United Arab Emirates, and Singapore, as well as the challenges companies face in meeting the increasingly demanding requirements of international markets.

The program also featured Luís Cordeiro, founder and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Grupo Estel and Placas do Brasil, who shared insights on business cooperation, value creation, and long-term strategic vision.

Representing ApexBrasil, Paulo Roberto da Silva, Industry and Services Coordinator, presented the support mechanisms available to Brazilian companies seeking international expansion and highlighted the role of trade promotion in creating new opportunities for Brazilian products abroad.

Perspectives for the Industry

Closing the program, Fábio Cruz and Franko Beainy, founder of the platform The Marble Master, took part in a discussion on prospects for the international promotion of natural stones and emerging trends related to material specification across different markets.

Stone Core 2026 was made possible with the support of partner companies committed to strengthening and advancing Brazil’s natural stone industry. This edition was sponsored by Milanez & Milaneze, a VeronaFiere Group company, Speed Comex, Sicoob Credirochas, Tipz and Emeg.