Palestinian stone rolls into US market

Seven Palestinian stone and marble companies displayed their products in the U.S. for the first time in April 2010 at Coverings, which draws more than 600 exhibitors in tile and stone from around the world. Assisted on the ground by USAID’s Enterprise Development and Investment Promotion project, which helped organize the Palestinian Pavilion, companies made dozens of contacts, including major importers and commercial builders, and gained valuable market intelligence while opening a new avenue for buyers seeking popular products.

Many buyers were surprised to learn that Jerusalem Stone is not an exclusive product of Israel, and that in fact much of what they have been working with for years likely originated from the Palestinian Territories.  Several buyers said they were impressed with the high quality of Palestinian tiles, claddings and moldings—and encouraged by the discount from working directly with the quarry owner or manufacturer rather than through an Israeli middleman. Contacts expressed interest in visiting manufacturing facilities and quarries in Palestine.

Various contractors who visited the Palestinian Pavilion revealed the importance of using Jerusalem Stone—particularly Jerusalem Gold—in the construction of churches and synagogues, as congregations like using materials from the Holy Land.  Designers of other commercial and residential projects expressed greater demand at the moment for the Bone and Gray or Gray-Gold colors.  Israeli firms marketing Jerusalem Stone emphasize the time-consuming hand-chiseled finishing as a key selling point—an example Palestinian companies could follow.

Issa Halayqeh of Al Halaika, who has exhibited at other trade shows in the past but never in the U.S., said shows like Coverings raise the profile not only of companies but of the region.  

“Having a booth helps change people’s impression of doing business with Palestine,” Halayqeh said. “People trust you more when they can meet you in person, and trust that you’re a serious company when you show yourself on a regular basis.”

Published May 2010

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