As the first half of 2025 comes to a close, the agenda is packed… On one hand, the industry continues to struggle with soaring costs; on the other, there are lingering discussions about the İzmir fair, rising expectations for the new Afyon fair, boycott rumors from India, and the highly anticipated exporters’ union elections that are expected to shape 2026.
Let’s break it down one by one:1. Costs Under the Microscope
Years ago, a friend said, “For the first time, I’ve seen marble producers actually doing cost accounting.” A lot has changed since then. Now, companies are going over every expense with pen and paper — including fair-related costs that were once barely noticed. We’re even hearing of firms opting out of international trade missions due to the cost factor.
2. Marble İzmir: Mixed Reviews
The Marble İzmir Fair has wrapped up — for better or worse. It’s widely acknowledged that the event has been losing momentum. That makes 2026 a critical year to reverse the trend. The biggest advantage? İZFAŞ’s new general manager, Tuğçe Cumalıoğlu, has quickly earned the trust of the industry.
3. Afyon Block Marble Fair Opens Its Doors
After much speculation — Will it happen? Will it alternate with Bursa? Who makes the call? — the Afyon Block Marble Fair is finally launching. Local stakeholders are highly motivated and optimistic. With over 200 exhibitors in its debut year, it’s already showing promise.
4. India: Tensions and Boycotts?
Turkey’s indirect involvement in the India–Pakistan tension has raised memories of the Saudi Arabia crisis. There have been some reactions toward Turkish companies and calls for boycotts in certain sectors in India. However, there are two positive aspects:
1.Unlike the Saudi situation, this is not a government-driven issue.
2.India sourced 60% of its imported natural stone from Turkey in 2024 — and Turkish stone remains its most profitable and indispensable option.
5. Exporters’ Union Elections Are Heating Up
Ali Emiroğlu was the first to announce his candidacy for the İstanbul Mineral Exporters’ Association (İMİB). Muhammet Salih Yıldız also said, “Count me in.” Whether current İMİB President Eyüp Batal will run again remains unclear, but it’s likely that the current administration will nominate a new candidate from within.
To those asking, “Who do you think it’ll be?” — the signs seem to point to Metin Çekiç. Surprises? Time will tell.
As for the Aegean Mineral Exporters’ Association (EMİB) — sources suggest İbrahim Alimoğlu won’t be running again. Names circulating in the background include İbrahim Altınpınar, Mehmet Serter, and Reyhan Sezgin. Could Serkan Sarıçiçek, who ran against Alimoğlu last time, make a return? We’ll soon start hearing more.
And if you ask, “Who do you think it’ll be?” — here too, the signals seem to favor İbrahim Altınpınar.
