Xaimen 2015 International Natural Stone Show took place in Xaimen, China, from March 6 to March 9. In total 140 firms, 63 by the participation organization of Aegean Exporters Union and 77 individually, presented the natural stone wealth of our country to foreign buyers.
This year, IMIB (Istanbul Mineral Exporters Association) took part at the trade fair with an “info stand”. IMIB Chairman of the Board Ali Kahyaoğlu addressed the audience at a seminar held for Chinese firms wishing to invest in Turkey. In his address, Kahyaoğlu said that Chinese firms should not just come for quarry projects in Turkey; that they also should be committed to natural stone plant projects operating on advanced technology. Drawing attention to Turkey’s location, Ali Kahyaoğlu said that Chinese firms with plant investments in Turkey could have easier access to European and Middle Eastern markets; hence obtaining greater profits. Kahyaoğlu, adding that Turkish natural stones would make a higher contribution to our country being sold at higher added value, held bilateral talks with the firms after his speech.
IMIB asked for 1500 m² from Xaimen show authority for approximately 100 firms under the URGE (International Competition Enhancement) supported by Ministry of Economy. The trade fair authority which approved this application in principle, started working on the final agreement following the trade fair.
On the fourth day of the show, IMIB organized a dinner event for all Turkish participants. The function attended by more than 200 Turkish natural stone firm representatives was at an Uygur restaurant in the city of Xaimen.
Compiled by Bülent Tatlıcan