Bishkek – Three leading stone processing companies from the Kyrgyz Republic attended one of the largest industry events dedicated to stone, marble and ceramics - Middle East Stone 2016 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. More than 230 companies showcased their products and 12,000 visitors attended for live demonstrations and networking opportunities. The United States through USAID sponsored the participation of the three Kyrgyz companies to promote exports of Kyrgyz construction materials.

In addition to showcasing Kyrgyz stone products, participants learned about cutting-edge technologies in the industry and ways to compete in international markets.  The Kyrgyz delegation attended seminars and workshops to study modern technologies for stone processing and discovered new products to save energy, reduce emissions, and minimize waste. They also toured buildings in Dubai to see uses of stone in interior facades, décor, and flooring.

Persian Gulf markets for stone construction materials are valued at $4.8 billion annually. After discussions with other participants and reviewing competitors’ offerings, it was clear that the Kyrgyz Republic has strong potential to compete in this lucrative market thanks to its competitive labor and energy advantages.

In meetings with potential buyers, the Kyrgyz delegation provided product samples and promotional materials.  As a result, several wholesalers and retailers agreed to represent Kyrgyz producers to end buyers and exhibit samples of finished Kyrgyz stone products in their show rooms.

The USAID Business Growth Initiative is a four-year project to build and strengthen the competitiveness of Kyrgyz tourist destinations and other economic sectors, including apparel manufacturing and construction materials. This project is one of many supported by the United States to promote sustainable economic growth in the Kyrgyz Republic. To learn more, please visit http://usaid.gov/Kyrgyz-Republic.