The demand of marble, ceramic tile, and granite is increasing in very fast pace. With the increase in purchasing power of people, and increase in the number of house construction, these materials are sought for kitchen, bathroom, hotel, hospital and big housing.

Import dependent business
Despite the high demand, these materials aren’t produced in Nepal, but mostly imported from India. Other than India, the materials are imported from China, Spain, Italy, etc. The business for these materials have been increasing with 40% every year.

Increase in demand: why?
Tiles are used for clean and attractive kitchen and bathrooms. They are also used to avoid the furniture and fixtures from coming into contact with moisture and water.

Thousands employed
More than a thousand individuals are involved in the business of tile, marble and granite employing thousands of employees. As per Nepal Marble Business Union, Kathmandu is the main market for these products. Other than this, hilly headquarters, and rapidly urbanizing districts from Terai region have also high demand.

Popular tile brands in Nepal
• Porcelanosa: Spain
• Halcon: Spain
• Orient: India
• Kito: China
• Suman Bharmora, Sun City, Sun Face: India
• Dimol: Italy

Popular tiles in Nepal
• Ceramic mosaic tile
• Decorative wall tile
• Paver tile
• Porcelain tile
• Quarry tile

Possibility of producing tiles and marbles in Nepal
The only company producing tiles in Nepal was shut down after the order of the Supreme Court of Nepal in 3rd Baisakh 2072. The case judgment was settled after 25 yearlong proceedings. After this, the business of tiles, marbles and granite is fully dependent on import. Due to lack of investment-friendly environment Nepalese businesses aren’t attracted towards domestic production of these materials.