Greece's marble industry, a cornerstone of its cultural and economic identity since ancient times, now faces unprecedented challenges as global trade disputes escalate. The threat of U.S. tariffs on European goods has cast uncertainty over an industry supporting thousands of jobs in northern regions like Drama and Thassos.
Proposed tariffs of up to 50% on Greek marble exports to the U.S. – their fifth-largest export destination – come at a precarious moment. With annual exports to America valued at $2.68 billion, marble producers like Iktinos report shrinking profit margins and unstable demand. 'The pressure is everywhere,' said deputy CEO Ioulia Chaida, highlighting the interconnected nature of modern trade conflicts.
The situation amplifies existing challenges from shifting global markets. As Chinese demand weakens amid ongoing U.S.-China trade friction, Greek exporters increasingly rely on Western buyers. Transport operator Spyros Papamarinos, who moves seven marble loads daily, explained the human cost: 'That's how I support my family. If it slows down, we're in trouble.'
Local economies built around quarries and processing plants now face cascading risks. Product manager Alexandros Zorpidis of Volakas Quarry voiced concerns about generational impacts: 'I want my child to have a better future. But if marble stops – what then?' U.S. importers like Nikos Koleidis report cutting orders by 75%, unable to compete with lower-cost Turkish and Chinese alternatives if tariffs rise.
Alkiviadis Kalampokis of the Panhellenic Exporters Association warns of systemic damage: 'We built this market over decades. If it collapses, recovery won't be quick.' As machinery continues humming across Greece's marble heartlands, the industry's future – and the communities it sustains – remains delicately balanced between ancient tradition and modern economic realities.
