BusinessLocal Turkiye

$50 million worth of pumice was exported from Turkiye to more than 45 countries

Last year, pumice stones worth $50 million were exported from various regions of Turkiye to more than 45 countries.

In Turkiye, which has half of the world’s reserves, pumice extracted from mining sites in different provinces, especially Nevsehir, is used as raw material or processed.

The spongy light rock formed after volcanic activities is mostly preferred in construction, agriculture and textile fields.

More than 200 businesses operating in pumice production across the country also contribute to employment and the economy.

“More than 20 thousand people are employed.”

Pumice Industrialists Association (BIMSADER) Chairman Serhat Sonugelen stated that they attach importance to R&D work and promotion and said that the demand for pumice is increasing every year.

Stating that they describe pumice as “white gold” due to its high added value, Sonugelen said:

“The most pumice in the world is found in Turkiye. It is available in some countries, especially the USA, Italy and Greece. In our country, it is mostly found in Nevsehir, Kayseri, Bitlis, Erzurum, Van, Isparta and Manisa. It is estimated that the reserves in our country are more than 9 billion cubic meters. Pumice stone is a natural and ecological material. Pumice is a product with high export value and more than $50 million were exported in 2023. He has been to more than 45 countries. Pumice is exported to many countries from China to Europe. The domestic market of the sector is also large. More than 20 thousand people are employed.”

Stating that investments to increase pumice block production capacities made from pumice this year are continuing, Sonugelen added that they expect the pumice export revenue at the end of 2024 to exceed $60 million.

Source: Trthaber / Prepared by Irem Yildiz

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Back to top button