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Made in Italy since 1973

Year 36 Supplement to no. 164 January/February 2026 Bimontly Review

contents

Cover picture by: Giancarlo Pradelli

Editorial

Welcome to Indian Ceramics Asia 2026!

Paola Giacomini

Hkkjrh; fljsfed ,f'k;k 2026 esa Lokxr gS!

World News

14 Events

TECNA 2026 gets a makeover

VsDuk 2026 dks feyk u;k :i

18 Economics

Ceramic machinery: the Italian industry’s preliminary 2025 results

fljsfed e'khujh% bVkfy;u m|ksx ds o"kZ 2025 ds 'kq:vkrh ifj.kke World production and consumption of ceramic tiles

Luca Baraldi

fo'o esa fljsfed Vkbyksa dk mRiknu vkSj [kir

28 Interview

Kajaria Ceramics set to outpace industry performance

dtkfj;k fljsfeDl baMLVªh ds ijQ‚esaZl ls vkxs fudyus ds fy, rS;kj gS

Somany Ceramics grows despite the slowdown in the Indian market

Hkkjrh; cktkj esa eanh ds ckotwn lksekuh lsjkfeDl dk fodkl tkjh gS

Arwana Ceramics: growing responsibly

vjokuk fljsfeDl% ftEesnkjh ds lkFk fodkl

40 Sanitaryware

World sanitaryware exports and imports

fo'o lSfuVjhos;j vk;kr vkSj fu;kZrS

The world’s leading sanitaryware manufacturers

nqfu;k ds vxz.kh lSfuVjhos;j fuekZrk

48 Technology

Form and function: the new age of digital ceramics

Lo#i vkSj dk;Z{kerk % fMftVy fljsfed dk u;k ;qx

The evolution of the through-vein effect

Fkzw&osu çHkko dk fodkl

System Ceramics: 12 months of innovation

flLVe fljsfeDl% 12 eghus dk buksos'ku

Italian excellence in ceramic pigments and digital materials

fljsfed fixesaV vkSj fMftVy lkexzh esa bVkfy;u mR—"Vrk

Dry technologies for raw material preparation in the brick and tile industry

bZaV vkSj Vkby m|ksx esa dPps eky dh rS;kjh ds fy, lw[kh rduhdsa

Paola Giacomini

Milena Bernardi

Luca Baraldi

Sacmi

Officine Smac

System Ceramics

Inco

Minerali Industriali Engineering

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Luca Baraldi, Milena Bernardi, Gian Paolo Crasta, Stefano Lugli

From the past to the future of world ceramic tiles

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Hkkjrh; fljsfeDl ,f'k;k 2026 esa Lokxr gS! WELCOME TO INDIAN CERAMICS ASIA 2026! From 28 to 30 January, the Indian ceramic industry will meet again in Gandhinagar for the 20th annual edition of Indian Ceramics Asia. The show will feature more than 300 global and domestic brands spread across 12,500 sqm of exhibition space and expects over 10,000 trade visitors. The industry’s leading international suppliers will all be present, including the Italian machinery, equipment and material manufacturers Appel, Interser, Lamberti, LB Technology, Metco, Novaref, Sacmi, Officine Smac, Surfaces Group, System Ceramics, and Tecnoferrari: most of them will be exhibiting in the Italian pavilion organised by ACIMAC in cooperation with the Italian Trade Agency, while some of them will be present with their Indian companies or agent. Germany will also attend the exhibition with both the German pavilion and other individual exhibitors such as raw material supplier AKW. Other international brands include Imerys, in the field of ceramic raw materials, and several Chinese companies. Indian Ceramics Asia provides a welcome opportunity to meet up with local customers. In the last couple of years, the Indian ceramic tile industry has confirmed its position as a global tile player and as the world’s second largest manufacturer, consumer and exporter behind China, despite the decline recorded in the year 2024 (January-December). That year, production and national consumption decreased by 2% and 4.7% respectively and total exports fell to 525 million sqm (down 11% on 2023), but still representing 19.6% of total global exports and 22% of Indian national production. In value, exports decreased to around 2 billion Euro, with a stable average price of 3.8 Euro/sqm. Indian ceramic tile exports in volume should end the year 2025 with a partial recovery, considering that in the first nine months of the year (January-September), they grew by 7.9% to 420 million sqm respect to same period in 2024. According to “Ceramic Tile Market Forecast Analysis. TRENDS 2025-2029”, the forecast report for the global ceramic tile market, published last November by the MECS-Acimac Research Centre, India is poised to acquire a growing share of global ceramic tile production, with output forecast to rise by an average of 3.7% per year to 2.9 billion sq.m through 2029. This corresponds to 500 million sqm of additional output respect to 2024 levels. The increase in national consumption will be even more marked (+6.3% CAGR 2025-2029), with volumes reaching 2.2 billion sq.m in 2029, i.e. 580 million sq.m more than in 2024. The progress of the Indian ceramic market will be supported by the excellent performance of the national economy (GDP is expected to grow by 6.5% per year over the 5 years) and by the good performance of investments in the construction sector.

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VsDuk 2026 dks feyk u;k :i TECNA 2026 GETS A MAKEOVER

Innovation, Technology, Design and Excellence are the keywords that capture the essence of TECNA 2026, the biennial event organised by Italian Exhibition Group in collaboration with Acimac and scheduled to take place in Rimini, Italy, from 22 to 25 September 2026. Building on the success of the 2024 edition of the show, with its 70,000 square metres of exhibition space, 350 exhibitors and 18,350 visitors from 100 countries, the 29th TECNA aims to consolidate its leading position among international events devoted to technologies for the ceramic and surfaces industry by taking on a new look designed to underline the show’s evolution and growing international reach. The makeover began a few months ago with the unveiling of a new visual identity consisting of a new logo and the tagline “The global expo for ceramics & more” and culminated in the launch of the new website (www.tecnaexpo.com) offering a preview of what the exhibition will have in store. THE GLOBAL HUB FOR THE CERAMIC AND SURFACES INDUSTRY Staying true to its slogan “How to make it”, TECNA 2026 will be the industry’s most comprehensive showcase of the process technologies, decorative solutions and innovative materials that are rewriting the future of ceramic and non-ceramic surfaces and other ceramic products. The exhibition will be organised around seven thematic areas: • Tile – Technologies and solutions for the production, processing and finishing of ceramic tiles and slabs. • Whiteware – Plant, machinery and equipment for the production of sanitaryware, ceramic and porcelain tableware, and technical ceramics. • Heavy Clay – Technologies for the production of clay bricks and roof tiles. • Non-Ceramic Surfaces –

CWR INDIA 2026

events

Technologies and materials for processing and transforming non-ceramic surfaces such as glass, wood, natural stone and composite materials. • Raw Materials – Raw materials for ceramic bodies, additives and chemicals, colours, frits, glazes and inks. • Logistics & Intralogistics – Integrated systems for industrial logistics and intralogistics, and warehouse management. • Automation & Components – Advanced technologies, equipment and components for industrial automation, integrating digitalisation, robotics and cobotics and paving the way towards connected, sustainable factories. • Green Solutions – Innovative technologies, solutions and software for reducing the environmental impact of processes through energy efficiency, waste reduction, lower consumption and resource recovery. CALENDAR OF EVENTS As always, TECNA will feature an extensive programme of ancillary events. The full schedule will be finalised in the coming months, but we can already offer a preview of a few highlights. • DECORTECH, the event within the event Amid the growing hybridisation of surface coverings, their integrated use in domestic and public spaces and the

CWR INDIA 2026

events search for innovative techniques and aesthetics, design has become an increasingly central aspect of both finished products and process technologies. This is the concept behind Decortech, a special exhibition section catering to the companies that develop technologies for decorating and finishing surfaces for architecture and interior design. Decortech will be further expanded at Tecna 2026 with the aim of consolidating its role as a specialist in-show event catering to the entire sector. As part of this evolution, the Decortech Conference will introduce a new graphic identity, built around a dynamic colour palette that will be updated every year to reflect the latest trends in design and aesthetics, reinforcing the link between technology, creativity and evolving visual languages. • The TecnAwards, celebrating excellence in international ceramics At Tecna 2026, the TecnAwards will further consolidate their role as a bridge between suppliers and ceramic manufacturers by recognising the best technological investments made internationally between 2024 and 2026. The 2026 awards will adopt an innovative format designed to highlight the real-world impact of innovations introduced by ceramic companies, showcasing concrete applications and the results achieved across the production chain. • The “X Machines” conference Through its collaboration with Digital Industries World (the association committed to accelerating the digital transition of companies in Italy and abroad), Tecna 2026 will host a conference entitled “X Machines”, focusing on the new generation of connected, intelligent industrial systems. Integrated into digital service models, these solutions can deliver advanced performance, predictive and enhanced maintenance and analytical data to support decision making. The aim of the event is to equip industry professionals with the tools and knowledge they need to address the transition towards digitalisation and servitisation: transforming machines into connectivity-enabled systems supported by after-sales services, data collection, remote control and automation, now a strategic focus for the capital goods industry. • Tecna Future Hub - Academy Another feature of the restyled TECNA is the Tecna Future Hub, a thematic area dedicated to innovations in the ceramic and surfaces industry, from digitalisation and green solutions through to logistics and new production models, aimed at making innovation an ongoing process that is not limited to the sole duration of the exhibition. As at past editions, Future Hub will once again host Tecna Academy, the area devoted to training activities led by high-profile speakers with content aligned with the latest market demands and the new skills required by businesses.

◼

CWR INDIA 2026

economics

fljsfed e'khujh% bVkfy;u m|ksx ds o"kZ 2025 ds 'kq:vkrh ifj.kke CERAMIC MACHINERY: THE ITALIAN INDUSTRY’S PRELIMINARY 2025 RESULTS

The Italian ceramic machinery and equipment industry is expected to close 2025 with total turnover of €1,732 million, down 5.1% from €1,825 million in 2024. That follows a much sharper contraction in 2024 (-24%), bringing 2025 sales broadly back to 2019 levels. According to preliminary figures compiled by the MECS - Acimac Research Centre, the slowdown affects both exports and the domestic market. Domestic sales generated revenues of €518 million, a 3.1% decline on 2024, while exports totalled €1.214 billion, down 5.9% year on year. These results reflect a persistently challenging scenario amid ongoing instability in the international socioeconomic environment and growing competition from overseas manufacturers, particularly in Asia. At the same time, the sector is going through a period of natural adjustment following the significant investments made in recent years by the world’s leading ceramic manufacturing groups. Despite this, the downturn is less severe than initial estimates suggested, confirming the resilience of Italian companies and the presence of factors that may lead to a recovery in the not too distant future. “If the preliminary figures are confirmed, 2025 has turned out better than we were expecting at the beginning of the year,” commented Acimac’s Chairman Paolo Lamberti. “We are operating in a complex landscape: international competition, particularly from China, has become more aggressive and requires us to maintain a constant focus on our commercial and manufacturing strategies. However, we are seeing a number of tangible developments that may drive demand, including the prospect of a medium-term recovery in construction and the need in several countries to replace obsolete plants. This represents a major opportunity for Italian companies to supply hightech, high value-added solutions. Finally, we back Confindustria’s call for the European Union to strengthen its industrial base and support European-made products in order to create a more level playing field with respect to international Paolo Lamberti competitors.”

◼

CWR INDIA 2026

fo'o esa fljsfed Vkbyksa dk mRiknu vkSj [kir WORLD PRODUCTION AND CONSUMPTION OF CERAMIC TILES Luca Baraldi - MECS / Centro Studi Acimac (l.baraldi@mecs.org)

The 13th edition of the study “World production and consumption of ceramic tiles” produced by MECS / Acimac Research Centre was published in October. The study runs to almost 300 pages of charts, tables and commentary, and examines in detail the ten-year trend to 2024 for the industry, the market, per capita consumption and import-export flows, both by macro-region and for the 76 largest tile producing, consuming, exporting and importing countries. For each country there is also an in-depth breakdown of import and export volumes by product type: porcelain stoneware, single-fired and double-fired tiles, and other materials *** Overall, the global ceramic industry and market continued to experience a downturn in 2024, following the negative trends observed in 2022-2023. The persistent economic slowdown and international geopolitical tensions further cooled global tile demand and resulted in another contraction in worldwide production and trade volumes, with percentage declines slightly worse than in 2023.

WORLD MANUFACTURING AREAS

WORLD CONSUMPTION AREAS

2024 (Sq.mt Mill.)

% on world production

% var. 24/23

AREAS

EUROPEAN UNION (27)

1,054

7.1%

1.4%

OTHER EUROPE (Turkey included)

561

3.8%

NORTH AMERICA (Mexico included)

328

CENTRAL-SOUTH AMERICA

2024 (Sq.mt Mill.)

% on world consumption

% var. 24/23

EUROPEAN UNION (27)

839

5.8%

1.0%

-8.8%

OTHER EUROPE (Turkey included)

623

4.3%

-2.0%

2.2%

-6.0%

NORTH AMERICA (Mexico included)

542

3.7%

-1.6%

1,100

7.4%

-2.1%

CENTRAL-SOUTH AMERICA

1,205

8.3%

-0.9%

ASIA

10,877

72.8%

-6.5%

ASIA

10,064

69.2%

-7.7%

AFRICA

1,025

6.9%

-13.0%

AFRICA

1.227

8.4%

-14.3%

OCEANIA

0.0%

OCEANIA

0.4%

2.0%

TOTAL

14,950

100.0%

-6.2%

TOTAL

14,552

100.0%

-6.8%

AREAS

CWR INDIA 2026

economics

World tile production fell to 14,950 million sqm in 2024, 6.2% down on the 15,937 million sqm in 2023. Although almost all regions experienced a decline in production, the vast majority of the 987 million sqm contraction occurred in Asia and North Africa. Asia’s output fell 6.5%, from 11.6 to 10.9 billion sqm, equivalent to 72.8% of global production. China saw a contraction of 820 million sqm, partially offset by a recovery of more than 100 million sqm in Vietnam. Europe produced 1,615 million sqm (10.9% of the world total). Thanks to a rebound in Spain, the European Union posted a modest 1.4% growth in output (from 1,039 to 1,054 million sqm), still far from offsetting the 18% contraction of 2023. Production in non-EU Europe dropped to 561 million sqm (-8.8%), largely due to a lower output in Turkey. Production in the American continent also fell, dropping to 1,428 million sqm. North America saw a decline in output from 349 to 328 million sqm (-6%), while production in Central and South America slipped to 1,100 million sqm, a decrease of 2.1%. Finally, production in Africa saw its first contraction after more than a decade of growth, dropping from 1,178 to 1,025 million sqm (-13%). This was attributable to the sharp decline in Egypt and, to a lesser extent, in Algeria, while output in the Sub-Saharan area maintained 2023 levels. Global tile consumption followed a similar pattern, falling from 15,621 million sqm in 2023 to 14,552 million sqm in 2024 (-6.8%). All areas contracted, once again with the exception of the European Union, which saw 1% growth to 839 million sqm. Consumption declined slightly in Central and South America (1,205 million sqm; -0.9%), in North America (542 million sqm; -1.6%), and in non-EU Europe (623 million sqm; -2%). The decrease was much more pronounced in Africa (1,227 million sqm; -14.3%) and, above all, in Asia, where demand fell from 10.9 to 10.0 billion sqm (-7.7%), accounting for 69% of global consumption. In 2024, world exports also fell for the third consecutive year with a decline of 2.5% (essentially repeating the -2.4% of 2023). A total of 2,674 million sqm of ceramic tiles were exported worldwide, 69 million sqm less than the previous year. This drop is almost entirely attributable to Asia (down from 1,539 to 1,472 million sqm; -4.3%), which in effect means China and India. By contrast, exports from other areas remained substantially unchanged. Exports from the European Union CWR INDIA 2026

dropped from 770 to 768 million sqm (-0.2%); Central and South America from 138 to 132 million sqm (-4.2%); North America from 43 to 39 million sqm (-10.8%); and Africa from 121 to 111 million sqm (-7.9%). One positive exception was the recovery in exports from non-EU Europe (from 132 to 151 million sqm; +14.7%), driven by the strong performance of Turkey. With regard to the export propensity of the various continents or macro-regions, the European Union remained the area with the highest export share in 2024 at 73% of its production. All the other areas lagged well behind: non-EU Europe exported 27% of its output volumes, Asia 13.5%, North and South America both 12% and Africa 10.8%. The trend in import/export flows confirms the tendency for tiles to be produced close to markets. World exports accounted for 17.9% of global production and 18.4% of global consumption, with 61.9% of exports remaining within the same geographical area as production (80.2% of South American exports stayed in South America; 80.7% of North American exports remained within the NAFTA area; 64.7% of Asian exports were shipped to Asian countries; 91.5% of African exports remained in Africa). The European Union remained a partial exception, shipping 46.1% of its exports to non-EU markets. This is confirmed by a comparison between each continent’s contribution to global tile production and consumption, which shows that the values are essentially aligned: Asia represents 72.8% of production and 69.2% of consumption; Europe (EU + non-EU) 10.9% and 10.1% respectively; the Americas 9.6% and 12%; and Africa 6.9% and 8.4%. China, the world’s largest producer, consumer and exporter of ceramic tiles, saw its production and sales decline in 2023 for the third consecutive year. According to the China Building and Sanitary Ceramics Association, lower domestic demand (5.3 billion sqm; down 13% on 2023) forced the industry to reduce its output to 5.9 billion sqm (-12.2% compared to 6.7 billion in 2023), against an installed capacity of 12.2 billion sqm.

WORLD EXPORTING AREAS 2024 (Sq.mt Mill.)

% on world exports

% var. 24/23

EUROPEAN UNION (27)

768

28.7%

-0.2%

OTHER EUROPE (Turkey included)

151

5.6%

14.7%

NORTH AMERICA (Mexico included)

1.5%

-10.8%

CENTRAL-SOUTH AMERICA

132

4.9%

-4.2%

ASIA

1,472

55.0%

-4.3%

AFRICA

111

4.2%

-7.9%

OCEANIA

0.0%

TOTAL

2,674

100.0%

-2.5%

AREAS

CWR INDIA 2026

economics

© exclusive content The number of active companies also declined, dropping from 1,022 to 938. In 2024, Chinese exports fell to 600 million sqm (-2.5%), equivalent to 22.4% of world exports and increasingly shipped to destinations in Asia (442.5 million sqm; +0.9% on 2023). Fourteen of the Chinese ceramic industry’s top 20 foreign markets are in Asia, led by the Philippines, Indonesia, South Korea, Malaysia and Thailand. In Australia, China’s sixth-largest market and one in which it holds a market share of around 75%, sales rose to 33 million sqm. China saw a decline in exports to Latin America (66 million sqm; -11% on 2023), Africa (34 million sqm; -29%) and Europe (8 million sqm). In the first half of 2025, Chinese exports experienced a further fall of 3.9% in volume (271 million sqm) and 11.6% in value ($1.51 billion), with an average price of $5.56/sqm. In 2024, India maintained its position as the world’s second largest tile producer and consumer. Domestic production fell by 2% to 2.4 billion sqm, reflecting a decline both in domestic consumption (1,620 million sqm; -4.7%) and in exports, which dropped from 589 to 525 million sqm (-10.9%). Export revenues declined to about €2 billion, while average price remained stable at €3.8/sqm. In 2024, Asian markets continued to absorb the largest share of Indian exports: 216 million sqm (-13%), equal to 41.2% of total volumes. With the exception of South America, which continued to grow to 41 million sqm (+14%), all other destination areas experienced a decline: Africa -18.5% (98 million sqm); North America and Mexico -7% (62 million sqm); European Union -8% (54 million sqm); non-EU Europe -7.5% (50 million sqm). The ranking of India’s top countries of export underwent a number of changes compared to 2023. The United Arab Emirates, up 7.8% to 36.7 million sqm, became the leading export market, followed by the USA (34.2 million sqm; -7%), Iraq (30 million sqm; -6.7%) and Russia, which recorded the largest increase (+22.4%) to 28 million sqm. Kuwait and Mexico followed with about 25 million sqm each.

TOP MANUFACTURING COUNTRIES COUNTRY

2020 (Sq.m Mill.)

2021 (Sq.m Mill.)

2022 (Sq.m Mill.)

2023 (Sq.m Mill.)

2024 (Sq.m Mill.)

% on 2024 world production

% var. 24/23

CHINA

8,474

8,863

7,312

6,730

5,910

39.5%

-12.2%

INDIA

2,318

2,550

2,300

2,450

2,400

16.1%

-2.0%

BRAZIL

840

1,049

927

793

825

5.5%

4.0%

VIETNAM

559

554

579

397

504

3.4%

27.0%

IRAN

449

458

480

450

3.0%

0.0%

SPAIN

488

587

500

394

416

2.8%

5.6%

INDONESIA

304

410

430

413

407

2.7%

-1.5%

ITALY

344

435

431

374

370

2.5%

-1.1%

TURKEY

370

438

385

372

318

2.1%

-14.5%

10.

MEXICO

235

290

289

264

251

1.7%

-4.9%

TOTAL

14,381

15,634

13,633

12,637

11,851

79.3%

-6.2%

TOTAL WORLD

17,139

18,602

16,862

15,937

14,950

100.0%

-6.2%

Source / Fonte: Mecs / Acimac Research dept. “World production and consumption of ceramic tiles”, 13 edition 2025 th

CWR INDIA 2026

The most significant declines were in Israel (from 22 to 14 million sqm; -37%), South Africa (from 19.5 to 12 million sqm; -38%) and Saudi Arabia (from 18 to 9.5 million sqm; -47%), where tariffs on Indian tile imports have been in place for four years. Brazil, the world’s third-largest producer and consumer country, saw a 4% increase in production in 2024 to reach 825 million sqm, partially making up for the output lost in the previous two years, in parallel with a similar recovery in domestic sales (727 million sqm; +4.8%). Exports, by contrast, continued to decline to 86 million sqm (-2.9%). These were almost entirely shipped to Central and South American markets with the exception of the USA, the second-largest destination market at 15.8 million sqm (-6.8%). The value of Brazilian exports fell to €338 million, with an average price of €3.9/sqm. According to forecasts by the country’s trade association Anfacer, production in 2025 should reach around 807 million sqm, with stable domestic sales and a slight recovery in exports (+2%). Spain, the largest European producer and the world’s third-largest exporter, also closed 2024 with a slight recovery in production, which rose from 394 to 416 million sqm (+5.6%), although still far from 2021-2022 levels. Consumption, almost entirely covered by domestic production, increased from 135 to 142 million sqm (+5.2%). Exports, however, continued to fall, dropping from 344 to 329 million sqm (-4.4%), equal to 79% of national production. The industry’s total turnover remained stable at €4.8 billion, of which €1.34 billion was generated by domestic sales (+3.1%) and €3.481 billion by exports (-2.4%) at an average price of €10.6/sqm. France remained the top export market (40.3 million sqm; -9.9%), followed by the United States (34.4 million sqm; -4.9%), Italy (16.5 million sqm; -3.6%), Morocco (15.8 million sqm; +3.5%), the United Kingdom (15.3 million sqm; -12.8%) and

TOP CONSUMPTION COUNTRIES COUNTRY

2020 (Sq.m Mill.)

2021 (Sq.m Mill.)

2022 (Sq.m Mill.)

2023 (Sq.m Mill.)

2024 (Sq.m Mill.)

% on 2024 world consumption

% var. 24/23

CHINA

7,859

8,268

6,737

6,118

5,314

36.5%

-13.1%

INDIA

1,884

2,069

1,750

1,700

1,620

11.1%

-4.7%

BRAZIL

829

902

736

694

727

5.0%

4.8%

INDONESIA

357

478

489

495

470

3.2%

-5.1%

VIETNAM

440

420

505

375

401

2.8%

6.9%

SAUDI ARABIA

284

252

262

282

269

1.8%

-4.6%

USA

264

289

285

264

259

1.8%

-1.9%

MEXICO

242

276

257

254

251

1.7%

-1.2%

EGYPT

237

308

368

390

246

1.7%

-36.9%

10.

BANGLADESH

162

106

170

208

241

1.7%

15.9%

TOTAL

12,558

13,368

11,559

10,780

9,798

67.3%

-9.1%

TOTAL WORLD

17,112

18,399

16,444

15,621

14,552

100.0%

-6.8%

Source / Fonte: Mecs / Acimac Research dept. “World production and consumption of ceramic tiles”, 13th edition 2025

CWR INDIA 2026

economics

© exclusive content Israel, which grew strongly to 13.8 million sqm (+19.2%). Considering macro-regions, Europe accounted for 49.7% of Spain’s exports by volume, Asia 15.2%, Africa 14.1%, North America 12.4% and South America 7.9%. In 2024, Italy’s production remained close to 2023 levels: 369.8 million sqm (-1%), produced by 122 companies. Total sales showed a slight recovery, rising from 369.2 to 378.3 million sqm (+2.5%) and generating revenues of €6.1 billion (-1.8%). Domestic sales remained stable at 84.8 million sqm, generating €1.084 billion in turnover (-3.7%) with an average price of €12.8/sqm. Taking imports (30 million sqm) into account, national consumption reached 115 million sqm (-1.7%). Italy remains the world’s fourth-largest exporter by volume and the largest by value. In 2024, exports (equal to 79.2% of production) grew by 3.1% to 293.5 million sqm, generating revenues of €4.979 billion (-1.4%) and with the average price falling from €17.7/sqm to €17/sqm. The top three foreign markets for Italian tiles were Germany (43.9 million sqm; +1.1%), France (40.6 million sqm; -4.5%) and the United States (33 million sqm; +9.3%). These were followed by Greece (9.4 million sqm; +67.5%), Austria (9 million sqm; -1%), Belgium (8.6 million sqm; +1.6%), Switzerland (8 million sqm; -1.6%), the United Kingdom (7.3 million sqm; -5.3%), the Netherlands (7 million sqm; -4.9%) and Canada (6.3 million sqm; -7.8%). Looking at macro-regions, Italy’s sales within the European Union remained stable at 165 million sqm (equal to 56% of total exports), while those in non-EU Europe grew by 12% to 30 million sqm. Italy’s tile exports to North America (41 million sqm; +8%) and to Asia (36 million sqm; +14.3%) also increased, while sales in Africa (12.5 million sqm) and Oceania (3.7 million sqm) remained stable and exports to South America declined (4.6 million sqm; -29.5%). The two Asian giants China and India and the two largest

TOP EXPORTING COUNTRIES COUNTRY

2020 (Sq.m Mill.)

2021 (Sq.m Mill.)

2022 (Sq.m Mill.)

2023 (Sq.m Mill.)

2024 (Sq.m Mill.)

% on 2024 national production

% on 2024 world exports

% var 24/23

value 2024 (million €)

average export price (€/sq.m)

CHINA

622

601

579

615

600

10.2%

22.4%

-2.5%

2,976

5.0

INDIA

437

483

422

589

525

21.9%

19.6%

-10.9%

2,001

3.8

SPAIN

422

496

431

344

329

79.1%

12.3%

-4.4%

3,481

10.6

ITALY

318

364

356

285

293

79.2%

11.0%

3.1%

4,979

17.0

IRAN

179

182

194

203

202

44.9%

7.6%

-0.4%

407

2.0

TURKEY

132

154

127

101

31.8%

3.8%

27.8%

671

6.6

BRAZIL

128

113

10.4%

3.2%

-2.9%

338

3.9

POLAND

54.2%

1.7%

4.7%

413

9.2

GHANA

36.5%

1.6%

-20.2%

128

3.0

10.

VIETNAM

6.9%

1.3%

2.9%

255

7.3

TOTAL

2,290

2,523

2,354

2,334

2,258

19.8%

84.4%

-3.2%

TOTAL WORLD

2,775

3,034

2,810

2,743

2,674

17.9%

100.0%

-2.5%

Source / Fonte: Mecs / Acimac Research dept. “World production and consumption of ceramic tiles”, 13th edition 2025 CWR INDIA 2026

European producer countries Spain and Italy together accounted for 65.3% of world exports last year. If the next six major exporting countries are added, the figure rises to 84.4%, similar to 2023. Spain and Italy maintained the highest export shares (both 79% of national production), followed by Poland at 54%, Iran at 45%, Turkey at 32%, India at 22% and Brazil and China at 10%. Italy also maintained its leadership position in terms of average selling price at €17/sqm, followed by Spain at €10.6, Poland at €9.2, Vietnam at €7.3, Turkey at €6.6, China at €5, Brazil at €3.9 and India at €3.8. Indonesia and Vietnam continued to rank amongst the largest producer countries in the Far East, while Iran maintained its strong position in the Middle East. In 2024, Vietnam recovered much of the decline it experienced in 2023, bringing production back up to 504 million sqm (+27%). Exports remained stable at 35 million sqm, of which almost 10 million sqm was shipped to the USA, while domestic consumption rose to 401 million sqm. Production in Indonesia fell by 1.4% to 407 million sqm, while consumption dropped to 470 million sqm (-5%), partly covered by imports (70 million sqm; -18.3%), almost entirely from China. Exports amounted to just 7 million sqm (-30%). The world’s fifth-largest producer, Iran, produced 450 million sqm, of which 200 million sqm was sold on the domestic market and 202 million sqm was exported, including 76% to Iraq. Turkey, the world’s ninth-largest producer and sixth-largest exporter, reduced its production in 2024 to 318 million sqm (-14.5%) in response to a fall in domestic demand to 232 milion sqm (-12%). Exports saw a significant recovery, rising to 101 million sqm (+27.8%), although still far from the 154 million sqm reached in 2021. Exports generated revenues of €671

TOP IMPORTING COUNTRIES COUNTRY

2020 (Sq.m Mill.)

2021 (Sq.m Mill.)

2022 (Sq.m Mill.)

2023 (Sq.m Mill.)

2024 (Sq.m Mill.)

% on 2024 national consumption

% on 2024 world imports

% var. 24/23

IRAQ

161

168

173

188

194

96.5%

7.3%

3.2%

USA

197

214

205

195

189

73.0%

7.1%

-3.0%

FRANCE

114

134

129

111

105

94.6%

3.9%

-5.7%

GERMANY

124

126

97.9%

3.6%

3.7%

PHILIPPINES

115

107

74.4%

3.5%

-4.3%

INDONESIA

14.9%

2.6%

-18.3%

SOUTH KOREA

75.8%

2.6%

5.2%

RUSSIAN FEDERATION

29.3%

2.5%

11.9%

THAILAND

35.5%

2.4%

5.0%

10.

MALAYSIA

61.2%

2.2%

23.7%

TOTAL

958

1,074

1,034

1,003

1,005

54.0%

37.6%

0.2%

TOTAL WORLD

2,775

3,034

2,810

2,743

2,674

18.4%

100.0%

-2.5%

Source / Fonte: Mecs / Acimac Research dept. “World production and consumption of ceramic tiles”, 13th edition 2025

CWR INDIA 2026

economics

© exclusive content million, with an average price of €6.6/sqm. Turkey’s main foreign market was the European Union (39 million sqm; +43.6%), followed by non-EU Europe (19 million sqm; +69%), Asia (18.7 million sqm; +11%) and North America (16.7 million sqm; -10%). Despite a decline, the USA remained Turkey’s largest single export market (13.1 million sqm; -14%), followed by Germany (12.4 million sqm; +25%) and the United Kingdom (7.7 million sqm; +14%). In 2024, the 10 largest importing countries imported a total of 1,005 million sqm (the same volume as in 2023), equal to 37.6% of global trade. With an increase of 3.2% over 2023, Iraq overtook the United States to become the world’s largest tile importer at 194 million sqm (including 154 million sqm from Iran and 30 million sqm from India), covering 96.5% of national consumption. Imports also accounted for 95% of sales in France and 98% in Germany. The main suppliers to France were Spain and Italy with 40 million sqm each (out of total imports of 105 million sqm); the main exporters to Germany were Italy, Turkey, Poland and Spain. In 2024, imports to Russia saw further growth to 67 million sqm (+12%), shipped mainly from India (28 million sqm), Belarus (16 million sqm) and Uzbekistan (6 million sqm). Five of the world’s ten largest importers are in Asia (Philippines, Indonesia, South Korea, Thailand and Malaysia), all markets where China remains the leading and almost exclusive supplier. One of the developments in 2024 was the fact that Israel dropped out of the ranking of the world’s top ten importers (it is now 13th) due to the decline in imports to 46 million sqm, covered almost entirely by India, Spain, China and Italy. The United States, the world’s second-largest importer, saw a 3% reduction in imports in 2024 to 189 million sqm, equivalent to 73% of total consumption (259 million sqm). 83.5% of US imports originated from the six largest supplier countries: Spain (34.4 million sqm; -4.9%), India (34.3 million sqm; -7.1%), Italy (33.1 million sqm; +9.3%), Mexico (27.3 million sqm; -12.3%), Brazil (15.8 million sqm; -6.8%) and Turkey (13.1 million sqm; -14%). As expected, the effects of the US market dynamics could be clearly seen in the first half of 2025: on the one hand, the import tariffs announced by President Trump, which prompted many US distributors to bring forward purchases; on the other, the introduction of anti-dumping duties on tile imports from India. Data released by the Tile Council of North America show that while tile consumption remained stable in the first six months of the year (-0.6% compared to H1 2024), imports gained momentum (+2.6% in volume and +5% in value) at the expense of domestic sales (-8.3%). In particular, market shares among traditional foreign suppliers shifted, with increases for Spain (20 million sqm; +27.3% in volume; +21.5% in value) and Italy (15 million sqm; +7.2% in volume; +7.3% in value), while India declined sharply (13.8 million sqm; -32.7% in volume; -42.2% in value). Brazil also performed well (+24.5% in volume and +26.3% in value), while Mexico saw a decline (-5.7% in volume and -8.4% in value).

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CWR INDIA 2026

dtkfj;k fljsfeDl baMLVªh ds ijQ‚esl Za ls vkxs fudyus ds fy, rS;kj gS KAJARIA CERAMICS SET TO OUTPACE INDUSTRY PERFORMANCE Paola Giacomini - p.giacomini@kairosmediagroup.it

Kajaria Ceramics has recorded another growth year. In the financial year ended 31 March 2025, the company delivered 6% growth in volumes and a 2% increase in topline, with total revenue from operations reaching around US $548 million (4,683 crore rupees). This reflects the largest Indian tile manufacturer’s ability to sustain growth even when the industry is under pressure. We talk to Chetan and Rishi Kajaria about the dynamics and prospects of the Indian market and the group’s latest projects, which are mainly focused on improving overall efficiency and diversifying its portfolio. CWR: 2024 was not an easy year for the Indian ceramic tile industry. What were the reasons for this? CHETAN KAJARIA: The Indian ceramic tile sector faced sustained headwinds last year, with muted domestic demand and softening sales prices. On the international front, exports were constrained by geopolitical tensions, elevated freight costs and supply chain disruptions in the Red Sea corridor. While India’s economy remained stable and resilient, the segments most relevant to us – real estate and construction – saw slower activity, which directly impacted tile consumption. However, we view this as a short-term softening rather than a structural issue. The medium- to long-term outlook remains encouraging. Rising urbanisation, government-led initiatives such as “Housing for All” and infrastructure spending, along with increasing consumer preference for aesthetic, durable and branded surfaces, provide a strong demand runway for the industry. CWR: So are you confident that construction investments will return to growth soon? CHETAN KAJARIA: We remain cautiously optimistic. As I was saying, India’s macro fundamentals are strong. The real estate market, currently valued at US$650 billion in FY25, is projected to reach US$1 trillion by 2030. Growth will be led by Tier

CWR INDIA 2026

Rishi and Chetan Kajaria

interview

II and Tier III cities, driven by urbanisation, rising disposable incomes and aspirational demand. In the near term, residential housing and public infrastructure projects will be the main growth engines. With our “Rebuild Kajaria” strategy, focused on process efficiency, marketing integration and cost discipline, we are well positioned to capture this momentum. CWR: What does the “Rebuild Kajaria” strategy mean in practical terms? RISHI KAJARIA: “Rebuild Kajaria” is about creating a leaner, smarter and more agile organisation. A key milestone was the unification of our marketing verticals into a single integrated team, eliminating inefficiencies and reducing costs. Additionally, we’ve undertaken cost optimisation across plants and other areas, and are investing in technology to streamline operations. These initiatives are already yielding results: Q1 FY26 has shown higher efficiency and much better profitability. CWR: Can you tell us about your recent investments in the sanitaryware and bathroom furnishings segment? RISHI KAJARIA: In FY 2024-2025, the Kerovit bathware division focused on enhancing manufacturing capabilities and expanding its product portfolio. The division now operates three stateof-the-art facilities for sanitaryware and faucets, with annual capacities of 1.2 million and 1.6 million pieces, respectively. During the year, the bathware division launched high-end sanitaryware from the KGPL plant. Kerovit also introduced special multifunction showers designed to complement its premium Aurum Range. It also expanded its customer engagement footprint by opening six new state-of-the-art customer experience centres, with three more in the pipeline for future launch. CWR: Are there any new product diversification or expansions planned? CHETAN KAJARIA: While we do not plan to make fresh investments in the tile and bathware segments in FY 2025–26, we commissioned a new adhesive plant at Gailpur, Rajasthan, with an installed capacity of 9,000 tonnes/month in the last year, which commenced production in May 2025. In line with our growth strategy to further strengthen our presence in South India, we are also setting up another adhesive plant of equal capacity in Erode, Tamil Nadu, which is expected to be commissioned by the end of this year. CWR INDIA 2026

interview

CWR: What are your expectations for the current year? RISHI KAJARIA: FY20252026 represents a pivotal year in our “Rebuild Kajaria” journey. Our key focus is on enhancing profitability through operational leverage and cost optimisation, including margin recovery via improved efficiency and optimised raw material sourcing, with focus on growth. We also aim to strengthen dealer relationships, enhance our retail footprint and deepen our presence in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, while expanding our premium and value-added portfolio to meet evolving consumer preferences and capture higher margins. Guided by customer insights, we will continue driving product innovations and reinforcing our IT ecosystem to boost efficiency and agility. CWR: What role does sustainability play in your production activities? CHETAN KAJARIA: Sustainability is central to our growth strategy and we are committed to integrating environmental conservation throughout our operations. Our initiatives focus on reducing the carbon footprint by increasing reliance on biofuels to replace coal, expanding renewable energy use and establishing a solar power facility. Resource efficiency is further enhanced through rainwater harvesting systems across our plants. Waste reduction and circular economy practices are embedded in our operations, alongside biodiversity enhancement initiatives around our plants. Additionally, the heightened emphasis on sustainability and eco-friendly materials has catalysed the development of tiles that are not only visually attractive but also environmentally responsible.

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CWR INDIA 2026

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Hkkjrh; cktkj esa eanh ds ckotwn lksekuh lsjkfeDl dk fodkl tkjh gS SOMANY CERAMICS GROWS DESPITE THE SLOWDOWN IN THE INDIAN MARKET Paola Giacomini - p.giacomini@kairosmediagroup.it

Somany Ceramics, India’s second largest ceramics group, closed the 2024-2025 financial year (ending 31 March 2025) with positive results despite the slowdown in the Indian domestic market. Turnover grew by 2.6% year-on-year to INR 26.43 billion (approx. US $320 million), following the previous year’s 4.6% increase. This performance reflects the company’s resilient strategies to sustain growth alongside the significant investments made in recent years. Somany’s market presence continues to strengthen, both domestically and internationally. It serves customers across 76 countries on six continents, while in India it operates through 2,880 active dealers and 514 showrooms, cementing its position as one of the most trusted names in Indian households. We spoke to Managing Director & CEO Abhishek Somany and Head of International Business & Strategy Amit Bhatnagar. CWR: What factors have propelled Somany Ceramics’ growth in the last financial year? ABHISHEK SOMANY: Amid the challenging backdrop, we have demonstrated resilience, strategic clarity and consistent execution. A key strategic highlight of the year was our exit from low margin ventures. This enabled us to streamline operations and sharpen our focus on high-margin segments. We also improved our product mix and continued to deepen our retail penetration in Tier 3 and 4 towns. Aligned with our long-term vision, we continue to evolve from a tile manufacturer into a full-service interior solutions brand. Demand in business segments such as sanitaryware, bath fittings and adhesives has remained strong, driven by increased design consciousness and the growing preference for coordinated interior solutions. We are also preparing for a strategic foray into allied businesses, such as construction chemicals and related solu-

CWR INDIA 2026

interview

Talking to, from left... Abhishek Somany and Amit Bhatnagar

tions, further expanding our value-added offerings. CWR: How did your sales volumes evolve last year? A. SOMANY: We currently have access to tile manufacturing capacity of 75 million square metres per annum, which comprises our 7 plants and outsourcing tie-ups. In financial year 20242025, we achieved 81% capacity utilisation across our tile plants and recorded a consolidated sales volume of 70.85 million sqm. While sales volumes were resilient despite a softer domestic market and export headwinds, our EBITDA and PAT margins declined, primarily due to lower capacity utilisation and increased costs. Going forward, our strategic exit from underperforming JVs and greater focus on high-margin categories such as slabs, sanitaryware, bath fittings and adhesives are expected to strengthen operational efficiency and improve profitability. CWR: How is the Indian economy evolving and what impact has this had on the real estate and construction market? A. SOMANY: The Indian economy continues to demonstrate resilience, despite the backdrop of global uncertainties such as geopolitical tensions and trade disruptions, supported by infrastructure investment, rising urbanisation, private sector investments and growing consumer confidence. This should translate into a healthy real estate and construction market, with housing, commercial and infrastructure projects driving consumption. Government initiatives in affordable housing and smart cities have further bolstered activity. For Somany, this environment has sustained demand across tiles, sanitaryware, bath fittings and adhesives, even as input cost pressures moderated margins. Overall, the sector outlook remains positive, underpinned by India’s long-term growth story.

CWR INDIA 2026

CWR: What are your forecasts for the growth of ceramic tile consumption in India and for the Indian ceramic tile industry in general? A. SOMANY: FY 2024-2025 was a year of mixed realities for the Indian ceramic tile industry. Demand remained subdued, shaped by the prolonged election cycle, unpredictable monsoon patterns and a cautious consumer sentiment. Pricing pressure was intense, particularly in the Morbi cluster, where oversupply led many players to resort to steep discounting or temporary shutdowns. Export markets too were volatile. While freight rates softened and some green shoots of recovery appeared, global trade uncertainties limited the rebound. That said, the structural drivers for long-term growth remain intact. Rising urbanisation, increasing disposable incomes and the government’s push through PMAY and Smart Cities missions are expected to unlock significant housing and infrastructure-led demand. The healthy pipeline of real estate completions in metro and Tier II/III/ IV cities is likely to support consumption growth in the near term. Looking ahead, we expect ceramic tile consumption in India to grow at high double digits annually, outpacing global averages, as the market shifts steadily towards organised, branded and value-added products. CWR: Are you concerned about the 50% tariff announced by the United States on Indian exports? A. SOMANY: In our case no, because we do not export to the US market. We are however well-positioned to focus towards the Middle East, Africa and Latin America, while leveraging the anticipated domestic real estate demand to offset global headwinds. In the backdrop of current geopolitical shifts and trade realignments, the company sees this as an opportunity to strengthen resilience, expand into new geographies and reaffirm its leadership in premium surfaces.

CWR INDIA 2026

interview

CWR: How are your exports evolving? AMIT BHATNAGAR: Our exports experienced growth last year, even amidst a significant decline in India’s tile exports caused by a global slowdown. This achievement underscores the strength of our strategy and resilience in the face of challenging market conditions, including multiple anti-dumping investigations affecting the industry. Somany is now present in 76 countries across all continents, a testament to our expanding global footprint. Our international business approach involves entering markets as a brand, supported by a robust foundation of quality products, a diverse portfolio (tiles, bathware and adhesives) and effective pre- and post-sales service. The future looks promising, and we continue to move forward with confidence. CWR: You returned to Cersaie in 2025. What were your expectations? A. SOMANY: We have taken part in Cersaie before and see it as a global stage to showcase India’s design and manufacturing excellence. Visitors had the opportunity to experience our latest innovations in slabs, premium surfaces and technologically advanced tiles that blend functionality with contemporary aesthetics. Our aim was to build stronger connections with architects, designers and global trade partners, while positioning Somany as a serious international player amid today’s evolving geopolitical and trade landscape, where diversification and innovation are the keys to growth. CWR: What are your projects for the current year? A. SOMANY: The company is intensifying its focus on premiumization, shifting its product mix towards higher-value segments like large format slabs and Glazed Vitrified Tiles (GVT). We are also increasing our focus on propelling the bathware segment with the introduction of premium products and technologies. In the coming year we will also focus on developing our Home & Building Solutions business in the B2B and B2C segments. This strategy is designed to capitalize on strong domestic demand, bolstered by government infrastructure spending and a healthy real estate market, paving the way for a more profitable and sustainable future.

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CWR INDIA 2026

vjokuk fljsfeDl% ftEesnkjh ds lkFk fodkl ARWANA CERAMICS: GROWING RESPONSIBLY Milena Bernardi - m.bernardi@kairosmediagroup.it

For more than thirty years, Arwana Ceramics has been one of the biggest success stories in the ceramic industry in the Far East. Founded in Indonesia in February 1993 with the farsighted mission of combining economic growth with innovation, creativity and social responsibility, the company has been listed on the stock exchange since 2001 and is now Indonesia’s top tile manufacturer and one of the largest producers anywhere in the world. From the very beginning, Arwana chose Italian technology for all its expansion projects, including the latest investment which is currently nearing completion. In this project, which aims to increase the group’s total annual capacity from 68 to 75 million square metres by 2026 with the addition of a further 7 million square metres of glazed porcelain stoneware, the use of advanced production plants and automation will broaden the product range while ensuring quality, efficiency and sustainability. The group’s founder and CEO, Tandean Rustandy, who describes himself as a “social entrepreneur”, tells us how the solid founding values, constant research and a deep commitment to local communities have enabled Arwana to become not only a point of reference for the industry but also a cultural and social beacon for the entire region. CWR: What has defined Arwana’s development over these 33 years of business? TANDEAN RUSTANDY: Looking back at our history, I realise that our key strength has always been our clarity of vision. When I founded the company, Indonesia was a country with an enormous wealth of natural resources but with a large portion of the population living in poverty. That gave me the idea of building a company that would not only be profit-oriented but would also have a social role, giving something back to the community and the country. From the outset, we set ourselves the goal of being “the best in our industry” in three areas that remain our priorities today. The first is protection of the environment: our business relies heavily on natural resources, so we must care for nature by minimising our impact. The second key factor is innovation: to maintain our growth and overcome challenges, we have to reinvent ourselves and introduce new ideas and technologies. The third factor is our commitment towards society, which above all means offering high-quality products at prices that are affordable even for lower-income families. With this in mind, we have always invested in the very best Italian technologies, which have the added benefit of helping our employees grow professionally. CWR: This vision has enabled you to become your country’s larg-

CWR INDIA 2026

interview

Talking to... Tandean Rustandy, CEO of Arwana Ceramics

est ceramic group. What is Arwana’s industrial structure today? T. RUSTANDY: We operate five factories employing more than 2,500 people in different parts of Indonesia – in Tangerang, Serang, Grisic, Organ Illir and Mojokerto. Our installed capacity currently stands at around 68 million square metres, although this is set to increase to 75 million square metres in 2026 when the latest production lines have been installed. We sell around 99% of our output on the domestic market, where we have a very extensive commercial presence. Rather than relying on large distributors, we work with a network of around 40,000 small local retailers, who we support in various ways. In return, they have enabled us to grow year after year, even in the most difficult periods. CWR: You have three brands: Arwana, UNO and Arna. How do they differ? T. RUSTANDY: Arwana is our main brand, which we use for redbody tiles. UNO identifies our mid- to high-end range of rectified red-body tiles. Arna is our brand dedicated to glazed white-body porcelain stoneware. At present, Arna still accounts for only 13% of total production, but this share is set to grow following our current investment which will add a further 7 million square metres per year of capacity. CWR: Could you tell us about this project? T. RUSTANDY: For this investment, we have continued our longstanding collaboration with our Italian partners. At the 4D plant in Organ Illir we are installing an extensive suite of auto-

CWR INDIA 2026

mation systems supplied by System Ceramics. These include a new sorting and packaging system called SpeedWrap which we have developed jointly and which we will therefore be the first in the world to use. This solution combines very high productivity (20,000 square metres per day) with the flexibility of tray type closure, which reduces cardboard consumption. System Ceramics is also supplying a Qualitron quality control system, a solution that we have already been using for ten years in other plants, as well as digital printers – another technology we are very familiar with as we already have more than 15 of them installed on our production lines. The presses for the new line are supplied by Sacmi. The plant is due to start up in the first quarter of 2026 and will enable us to expand our range of sizes by adding 80x80 cm and 60x120 cm to our existing product portfolio which currently has 60x60 cm as the largest format. CWR: How did your close relationship with Italian technology come about? T. RUSTANDY: It all began with our very first factory, which was built more than thirty years ago using entirely Italian machinery. That plant is still fully operational today. Since then, we have continued to work with Italian partners, particularly System Ceramics and Sacmi, which stand out above all for their unrivalled after-sales service. We have a special relationship with both companies based on mutual trust and commitment. Thanks to them I have been able to visit some of the best plants in Mexico, South America and Europe, experiences that have proved essential in finding ways to improve our production processes and make them more efficient through the use of automation. Qualitron, for example, enables us to maintain the guaranteed level of quality even on products that cost just two dollars per square metre. CWR: Your industrial model is unique, based on open factories with gardens and waterfalls inside. What was behind this choice? T. RUSTANDY: I believe a workplace should be healthy and respectful for the people who work there. So in addition to ensuring the highest standards of cleanliness, we wanted to bring some of the surrounding nature inside the factories, creating a more pleasant environment. At the same time, we want our

CWR INDIA 2026

interview

factories to be part of the communities that host them and to demonstrate trust and transparency, which is why they have no perimeter fencing. Our activities must also be a driver of development for the local area: from children’s education, which we support through our playgroups and kindergartens, to helping create local micro-enterprises and building infrastructure. A company cannot grow in isolation. The world is interconnected, and what we do today only makes sense if it contributes to improving society, respecting the environment and creating lasting value for those who work with us and the communities around us. CWR: Your financial results confirm the validity of your business model. T. RUSTANDY: That’s true. In 2024 our revenues (IDR 2.6 trillion, around €131.5 million) grew by 7.6% compared to 2023, and in the first nine months of 2025 (IDR 2.1 trillion) we recorded a further 13.1% increase compared to the same period in 2024. We also maintained our excellent profitability, with a net profit in 2024 of 16.2% and EBITDA at around 25% of sales. These results run counter to those of the Indonesian ceramic sector as a whole and have allowed us to continue to invest, starting up a new production line on average every year and a half. At the same time, the outlook for the domestic market is positive. Indonesia’s per capita GDP is currently around $4,900 and is growing at an annual rate of about 5%. The country has a large housing deficit and the new government has planned to build three million homes a year, which corresponds to a theoretical demand of around 180 million square metres of tiles, mainly red-body. This means there is very substantial potential for growth in domestic consumption. CWR: Your interest in education has also led you to work with the academic world in the USA. What does this involve? T. RUSTANDY: I’m a member of the Board of Trustees of the University of Chicago, one of the world’s leading academic institutions and the third most important in terms of the number of Nobel laureates. I consider this role a great privilege, not only for me but also for my country, especially as I am the only Asian on the board. I’m proud to see that the number of Indonesian students at the University has increased since I began my term.

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fo'o lSfuVjhos;j vk;kr vkSj fu;kZr WORLD SANITARYWARE EXPORTS AND IMPORTS Luca Baraldi, MECS / Acimac Research Dept. (l.baraldi@mecs.org)

Between 2010 and 2024, global trade in ceramic sanitaryware grew by 72% from 2.16 million to 3.72 million tonnes, equivalent to a compound annual growth rate of 4%. After a decade of almost consistently positive growth, global sanitaryware exports peaked in 2021 (+17.3% due to the post-pandemic boom) before declining over the following two years. A fresh recovery came in 2024 with a +6.6% increase on 2023, driven almost exclusively by the performance of China. With 2.68 million tonnes exported in 2024 (+15.4% on 2023), Asia saw its share of global sanitaryware exports increase to 72%. This result was almost entirely attributable to China, which reached exports of 2.17 million tonnes (+19.7% on 2023). This figure, an all-time high for China, accounted for 81% of Asian exports and 58.4% of the global total. India, the world’s third largest exporter, experienced a 4.6% decline (253,000 tonnes), while Thailand also saw a slight contraction (-2.4%). By contrast, exports from Iran and Vietnam increased (+22.2% and +9.8%, respectively).

TAB. 1 - EXPORTS OF SANITARYWARE BY AREA (TONS) 2010

2017

2018

2019

2020

2021

2022

2023

2024

% 24/23

CAGR 24/10

% on 2024 world exports

Asia

1,100,506

1,756,791

1,988,977

2,222,549

2,130,425

2,534,883

2,447,474

2,320,496

2,677,636

15.4%

6.6%

72.0%

European Union

522,118

570,549

585,034

541,584

477,931

539,775

519,758

433,459

432,128

-0.3%

-1.3%

11.6%

Other Europe

132,132

203,077

220,127

237,166

246,162

291,352

253,113

199,051

177,360

-10.9%

2.1%

4.8%

NAFTA

268,401

366,973

375,412

365,828

368,508

402,166

284,032

385,924

275,899

-28.5%

0.2%

7.4%

South America

100,043

79,513

89,375

86,782

78,814

99,853

84,479

69,362

75,830

9.3%

-2.0%

2.0%

Africa

35,861

65,933

66,113

75,238

64,605

79,237

79,787

79,814

78,655

-1.5%

5.8%

2.1%

Oceania

1,960

411

583

580

315

364

867

902

1,824

102.2%

-0.5%

0.0%

6.6%

4.0%

100.0%

TOTAL WORLD

2,161,021 3,043,247 3,325,621 3,529,727 3,366,760 3,947,630 3,669,510 3,489,008 3,719,332

% var y-o-y

5.1%

9.3%

Source: Mecs / Acimac Research dept. on BSRIA and ITC data

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6.1%

-4.6%

17.3%

-7.0%

-4.9%

6.6%

sanitaryware

Exports from the European Union remained broadly in line with 2023 levels at 432,000 tonnes (-0.3%). The region’s three largest exporting countries – Poland, Germany and Portugal, which alone account for half of EU exports – all recorded small declines of between -1.7% and -2.4%. After a positive 2023, North America (NAFTA) experienced a sharp fall in exports in 2024 to 276,000 tonnes (-28.5%). This decline was almost entirely attributable to Mexico (253,000 tonnes; -28%), which nonetheless remained the world’s second largest exporter (tied with India) after China. Non-EU European countries also saw a fall in exports in 2024 (-10.9% to 177,000 tonnes). Turkey, the main exporter in this area and the world’s fourth largest exporter overall, recorded a 16.5% decline in foreign sales to 128,000 tonnes. Finally, Africa and South America have fairly similar export volumes. Africa remained at roughly the same level as in the previous four years, at 79,000 tonnes (-1.5%), while

TAB. 2 - THE TOP EXPORTING COUNTRIES (TONS) 2010

2017

2018

2019

2020

2021

2022

2023

2024

% 24/23

CAGR 24/10

% on 2024 world exports

China

901,962

1,378,951

1,532,833

1,747,579

1,698,152

1,968,003

1,917,768

1,814,586

2,171,280

19.7%

6.5%

58.4%

Mexico

226,569

326,289

342,666

335,997

333,366

351,835

251,566

352,146

253,310

-28.1%

0.8%

6.8%

India

15,076

137,717

182,691

199,371

171,698

264,253

251,195

265,110

252,934

-4.6%

22.3%

6.8%

Turkey

94,354

140,759

154,285

164,809

166,370

203,467

186,656

153,712

128,401

-16.5%

2.2%

3.5%

Poland

67,572

76,620

78,617

77,470

82,537

91,206

91,397

76,529

74,657

-2.4%

0.7%

2.0%

Iran

25,895

35,206

46,573

46,469

48,893

52,869

57,865

58,728

71,756

22.2%

7.6%

1.9%

Thailand

57,189

86,512

96,067

92,094

87,129

111,703

88,218

72,382

70,626

-2.4%

1.5%

1.9%

Germany

63,742

75,478

81,952

80,382

75,861

88,863

84,735

71,424

70,180

-1.7%

0.7%

1.9%

Portugal

75,049

94,164

101,654

81,574

65,438

82,200

82,012

68,165

66,925

-1.8%

-0.8%

1.8%

Vietnam

19,590

40,457

41,292

52,982

51,986

67,565

57,669

41,449

45,508

9.8%

6.2%

1.2%

1,546,998 2,392,153 2,658,630 2,878,727 2,781,430 3,281,964 3,069,081 2,974,231 3,205,577

7.8%

5.3%

TOTAL % on total world exports

71.6%

78.6%

79.9%

81.6%

82.6%

83.1%

83.6%

85.2%

86.2%

Source: Mecs / Acimac Research dept. on BSRIA and ITC data

CWR INDIA 2026

South America’s exports grew by 9.3% to 76,000 tonnes. Taken together, the 10 largest sanitaryware exporting countries accounted for 86% of global exports. An analysis of the variations in exports from each individual area of production over the last 14 years clearly reveals the growth of Asia. The continent’s exports have grown by over 140% over the period, increasing from 1.1 million tonnes in 2010 to 2.68 million tonnes in 2024 (CAGR 2024/2010 +6.6%) and eroding the global export shares of almost all other areas. The EU’s share of world exports fell from 24.2% in 2010 to 11.6% in 2024; the NAFTA region’s share declined from 12.4% to 7.4%; South America’s share dropped from 4.6% in 2010 to 2%, with volumes trending down over the period. Non-EU European countries were able to limit the decline in their share of world exports (from 6% to 4.8%) thanks to a 34% increase in exported

TAB. 3: IMPORTS OF SANITARYWARE BY AREA (TONS) 2010

2017

2018

2019

2020

2021

2022

2023

2024

% 24/23

CAGR 24/10

% on 2024 world imports

Asia

478,338

833,259

926,612

1,024,457

944,896

1,079,850

1,116,825

994,498

1,126,994

13.3%

6.3%

30.3%

European Union

692,328

685,235

742,413

769,968

719,995

837,868

769,859

707,168

753,362

6.5%

0.6%

20.3%

Other Europe

96,507

229,665

228,641

231,626

215,899

242,830

208,934

228,453

230,285

0.8%

6.4%

6.2%

NAFTA

620,716

866,815

948,435

967,417

986,250

1,154,980

989,033

975,898

1,009,113

3.4%

3.5%

27.1%

South America

119,957

140,950

145,579

158,335

143,668

217,462

183,174

194,218

234,386

20.7%

4.9%

6.3%

Africa

111,952

221,986

259,390

310,865

288,422

336,669

316,491

324,107

293,423

-9.5%

7.1%

7.9%

Oceania

41,223

65,337

74,551

67,059

67,629

77,971

85,194

64,667

71,769

11.0%

4.0%

1.9%

6.6%

4.0%

100.0%

TOTAL WORLD

2,161,021 3,043,247 3,325,621 3,529,727 3,366,760 3,947,630 3,669,510 3,489,008 3,719,332 -1.9

% var y-o-y

5.1

9.3

6.1

-4.7

-7.0

-4.9

6.6

Source: Mecs / Acimac Research Dept. on BSRIA and ITC data

TAB. 4 - THE TOP IMPORTING COUNTRIES (TON) 2010

2017

2018

2019

2020

2021

2022

2023

2024

% 24/23

CAGR 24/10

% on 2024 world imports

USA

500,415

738,424

811,329

817,904

837,646

954,238

831,538

812,909

851,394

4.7%

3.9%

22.9%

Germany

107,509

140,282

148,431

150,445

144,325

155,331

149,626

117,201

123,351

5.2%

1.0%

3.3%

Korea

84,543

142,706

142,732

142,658

127,185

156,902

141,505

97,845

123,124

25.8%

2.7%

3.3%

United Kingdom

103,815

151,904

138,454

143,764

119,104

131,784

112,302

113,132

116,442

2.9%

0.8%

3.1%

France

115,108

116,870

125,738

135,313

125,226

150,811

130,060

122,535

115,864

-5.4%

0.0%

3.1%

Spain

83,634

89,036

108,096

104,981

86,835

118,467

103,707

98,576

111,169

12.8%

2.1%

3.0%

Saudi Arabia

33,592

58,100

51,814

74,034

82,903

70,855

88,088

88,765

105,762

19.1%

8.5%

2.8%

Vietnam

3,866

20,855

32,342

55,237

68,354

75,538

84,719

73,062

92,918

27.2%

25.5%

2.5%

Mexico

15,404

22,188

32,887

42,018

41,451

62,218

48,980

67,601

79,478

17.6%

12.4%

2.1%

Canada

104,680

106,137

103,682

107,464

107,013

138,487

108,422

95,347

78,173

-18.0%

-2.1%

2.1%

TOTAL

1,152,566 1,586,502 1,695,505 1,773,818 1,740,042 2,014,631 1,798,947 1,686,974 1,797,675

6.6%

3.2%

% on total world imports

53.3%

52.1%

51.0%

Source: Mecs / Acimac Research dept. on BSRIA and ITC data

CWR INDIA 2026

50.3%

51.7%

51.0%

49.0%

48.4%

48.3%

sanitaryware

volumes. Africa was the sole exception, with an increase in share of global trade from 1.7% to 2.1% on the back of 119% growth in export volumes over the period. An analysis of sanitaryware imports in 2024 by continent not only confirms Asia and North America as the two main destination regions but also reveals that their imported volumes were almost level: Asia imported 1.13 million tonnes (+13.3% on 2023), equivalent to 30% of world imports, while North America imported 1 million tonnes (+3.4% on 2023), corresponding to 27% of the total. The European Union followed a short way behind with imports of 753,000 tonnes in 2024 (+6.8% on 2023), accounting for 20.3% of the global total. The remaining 23% of world imports were shared between Africa, South America, non-EU European countries and Oceania.

FIG. 1 - SANITARYWARE EXPORTS BY AREA (SHARES IN % - 2010 VS. 2024)

South America 4,6% NAFTA 12,4% South America 4,6% Other Europe 6,1% NAFTA 12,4%

Africa 1,7% Africa 1,7%

2010 2010

2023 Oceania 0,1%

South America 2,0%

Oceania 0,1% Asia 50,9%

Other Europe 6,1% European Union 24,2%

Asia 50,9%

2023

NAFTA 9,7% South America Other Europe 2,0% 5,8% NAFTA 9,7% European Union Other Europe 12,6% 5,8% European Union 12,6%

European Union 24,2%

Africa 5,2% South America 5,6% Africa 5,2% South America 5,6% NAFTA 28,7% NAFTA Other Europe 28,7% 4,5% Other Europe 4,5%

2023

FIG. 22010 - SANITARYWARE IMPORTS BY AREA (SHARES IN % - 2010 VS. 2024)

Oceania 1,9%

2010

Asia 22,1% Oceania 1,9% Asia 22,1%

European Union 32,0% European Union 32,0%

Africa 9,4% South Africa America 9,4% 5,6%

2023

South America NAFTA 5,6% 27,0% NAFTA 27,0%

Other Europe 6,6% Other Europe 6,6%

CWR INDIA 2026

sanitaryware

Overall in 2024, the ten largest sanitaryware importing countries accounted for 48.3% of global imports (1.80 million tonnes). The ranking shows several changes in position compared to the previous year. The United States confirmed its status as the world’s largest sanitaryware importer with 851,000 tonnes (+4.7% on 2023). This volume represented 23% of global imports, the same share as in 2010. Other importing countries trailed some way behind: Germany and South Korea each imported 123,000 tonnes, the United Kingdom and France 116,000 tonnes, Spain and Saudi Arabia between 106,000 and 111,000 tonnes, and Vietnam, Mexico and Canada between 78,000 and 93,000 tonnes. Among the 10 largest importing countries, only France and Canada saw a decline in imports in 2024 (by 5.4% and 18% respectively). Of the remaining eight, five recorded double-digit growth, the highest being that of Vietnam (+27%). Mexico, Germany and Vietnam appear in the rankings of both the top 10 exporters and the top 10 importers, although only Mexico exports more sanitaryware than it imports. Finally, an analysis of the main export destinations according to the geographical areas of production shows that in four out of seven regions the vast majority of exports remain within the same geographical area or continent. Some 97.5% of exports from the NAFTA region (mainly Mexico) remain in North America (effectively the United States); 77% of South American exports stay within Latin America; 79% of European Union exports are destined for EU markets; and 69% of Oceania’s exports remain in Oceania. At the other extreme, 83% of exports from non-EU Europe are sold in other regions, mainly the EU, which is Turkey’s leading export market. Similarly, 76% of African exports are shipped to destinations outside Africa and 60% of Asian exports are sold outside the Asian continent, reflecting China’s capacity to sell its products in almost every region of the world.

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EXPORTS INSIDE AND OUTSIDE INTEGRATED AREAS (SAME CONTINENT OF PRODUCTION) - % SHARES 2024

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nqfu;k ds vxz.kh lSfuVjhos;j fuekZrk THE WORLD’S LEADING SANITARYWARE MANUFACTURERS

In 2024, the broad downturn in construction investment prompted even the world’s largest ceramic sanitaryware manufacturers to reduce their output by a few percentage points, as several players anticipated a recovery in sales as early as 2025. According to data collected by MECS for Ceramic World Review, in 2024 the Spanish group Roca reaffirmed its position as the world’s largest sanitaryware manufacturer, marketing its products under the Roca, Laufen, Celite, Parryware, Jika and Ying brands. Production totalled 23 million pieces (down from 24 million the previous year). Headquartered in Barcelona and active in other industrial sectors, the group operates 78 production facilities, including 7 in Spain and a further 71 spread across Europe, South America, North Africa, Asia and Oceania. It employs 19,500 people and in 2024 reported consolidated revenue of €1,948 million, down 5.3% from €2,057 million in 2023. Although no official figures are available, the Kohler Group (USA) has also confirmed its place among the leading players with an estimated production capacity of over 20 million pieces and factories in the USA, Mexico, Brazil, Morocco, Thailand, India, China and Indonesia. The group markets sanitaryware under the Kohler, Jacob Delafon, Sterling and Ann Sacks brands. Other major manufacturers with outputs of around 10 million pieces include TOTO, Geberit and Villeroy & Boch. The Japanese group TOTO, which also operates in the tile sector and other industrial segments, produced 9.9 million pieces of sanitaryware in 2024. It has 16 production facilities (4 in Japan and 12 in China, Taiwan, Indonesia, India, Thailand, Vietnam, Mexico and the United States) and reported consolidated sales of 724.5 billion yen (approximately €4.4 billion). The Swiss group Geberit, whose sanitaryware production facilities are located exclusively in Europe (Switzerland, France, Germany, Italy, Finland, Sweden, Poland, Portugal and Ukraine), has an estimated installed capacity of 14 million pieces. It expects its Bathroom Systems business unit to close 2025 with revenue up 5% on the approximately €980 million achieved in 2024. Following the acquisition of Ideal Standard in 2024, the German group Villeroy & Boch now has nine production facilities with an estimated installed capacity of 10 million pieces in Germany, France, Hungary, Romania, Thailand, the Czech Repub-

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sanitaryware

lic, Bulgaria, the United Kingdom and Egypt. The Bathroom & Wellness division generated revenues of €1,099 million in 2024, a figure that is expected to rise by a few percentage points by the end of 2025. Another major player in the sanitaryware sector is the Colombian group Corona, which produced 7.2 million pieces in 2024 against a production capacity of 10.9 million pieces. The group, which also operates in the ceramic tile and other industrial sectors, has seven factories (2 in Colombia, 3 in Mexico and one each in Nicaragua and Guatemala), employs 3,856 people and markets its products under the Corona, Mansfield, Incesa Standard, American Standard, Ecoline, Vortens and Ambience brands. Corona closed 2024 with consolidated revenues of €663.2 million, including €292.4 million from sanitaryware, €137 million from ceramic tiles and €234 million from other sectors. Further down the ranking are several companies with outputs ranging from 4 to 7 million pieces, including Lixil (Japan), Huida and Arrow (China), Dexco (Brazil), VitrA (Turkey), Rak Ceramics (UAE) and the Polish company Cersanit. In 2024, Cersanit produced and sold 4.4 million pieces (against a capacity of 6.2 million), generating turnover of €160 million. This was equivalent to 37% of consolidated revenues (€435 million), while the tile business contributed €260 million. The Cersanit Group employs around a thousand people at its two facilities in Poland and Ukraine. Not far behind is Duravit, with 3.9 million pieces produced in 9 factories (3 in Germany, 2 in Egypt, 2 in China and one each in France and India), with a tenth facility recently added in Canada. With around 6,800 employees worldwide, the group operates in the high-end segment and generated consolidated revenues of €631.2 million in 2024. Next in the ranking we find the Egyptian company Lecico (3.7 million pieces) and the Turkish company Turkuaz Seramik (3.6 million pieces). Further back are Isvea (Ece Holding) with a capacity of 2.85 million pieces, the Thai manufacturer SCG (1.6 million pieces) and the Peruvian company Trebol (1.34 million pieces). Other well-known brands with production volumes between 1 and 3 million pieces include Hindware and Cera (India), Ferrum (Argentina), Canakcilar (Creavit) in Turkey, Cisa (Ecuador), Cleopatra (Egypt), Saudi Ceramics (Saudi Arabia), Ceramic Industries (South Africa) and Viglacera (Vietnam).

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Lo#i vkSj dk;Z{kerk % fMftVy fljsfed dk u;k ;qx FORM AND FUNCTION: THE NEW AGE OF DIGITAL CERAMICS Dante Biserni, Sacmi (Imola, Italy)

The continuous evolution of living styles is a powerful driver for the development of new ceramic products that better meet the needs of modern homes. Today’s interior design trends – from new luxury to technology and nature – are increasingly shaping ceramic products, compelling them to take on new forms and functions. This transformation has been made possible by a series of innovative solutions developed by Sacmi, including surface and body decoration, surface structuring and synchronisation of the various digital applications. Before going on to explore the technological aspects, it is worth briefly looking at the key influences behind the development of high-quality ceramic aesthetics. One of the most significant is contemporary art, which interprets and gives form to social and cultural transformations, often inspiring new design trends. Industry events, such as Miart in Milan and ArteFiera in Bologna, as well as major European exhibitions hosted by institutions like the Louis Vuitton Foundation and the Pinault Collection, provide a steady stream of interesting ideas. Closely linked to art is fashion, another essential reference point for trend watchers and creators of interior design products. This in turn is connected to the world of furniture, a field in which Italy plays a leading role with the Salone del Mobile in Milan serving as the sector’s foremost international showcase. This event is also the main aesthetic benchmark for ceramic manufacturers, as design innovations presented in Milan are swiftly reinterpreted and translated into new ceramic collections by leading Italian and international brands. So what are the key developments in interior design that most clearly demonstrate the close relationship between furniture and ceramic surfaces? First, the emergence of the total look concept has prompted ceramic products to evolve beyond traditional floor and wall applications to become fully integrated design elements, including worktops, furnishing components and finishings. The total look concept extends beyond interiors, creating a sense of continuity between indoor and outdoor spaces. Over the years, outdoor areas have gained significance and are now designed with the same level of attention as interiors, reinforcing the role of ceramic surfaces as a key design element. Extending the use of ceramic floor and wall coverings to external applications has required specific research into new surface solutions, particularly those capable of realistically

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technology

reproducing natural stone with three-dimensional textures and finishes. In this context, Sacmi’s advanced surface structuring technologies, combined with surface decoration and post-firing treatments, allow for the creation of exceptionally natural-looking stone surfaces with outstanding technical and aesthetic properties. New techniques for synchronising the multiple digital applications play a key role in this process as they ensure perfect integration between the surface and the body of ceramic products. SURFACE STRUCTURE Sacmi offers two possible solutions for creating surface structures. The first is the traditional structured belt used on the Continua+ line, while the second is the Deep Digital Line, which integrates the DDG glue and grit decorating machine with the DHD digital printing machine. Specifically, at the exit from the Continua+ line, the first DDG performs digital structuring using resist inks and grits. This is followed by the DHD, which prints inks, resist inks and effects. Finally, the second DDG performs digital decoration with grits. To ensure precise synchronisation, the process incorporates an advanced electronic centring vision system called Line Up, which aligns and centres images with extreme precision, synchronising the various printers along the production line and allowing for the creation of exceptionally high-quality multi-layer products. At a higher level of line management, the Line Manager system provides a unified interface for the integrated control of all graphic files and digital decorating machines in operation within a single factory or across multiple facilities owned by the same company. Combining the Deep Digital Line with the Line Up and Line Manager systems allows unlimited potential for customisation, resulting in unique, tailor-made ceramic surfaces with perfect finishes and sharp details achieved CWR INDIA 2026

through automatic image alignment. At the same time, the systems ensure maximum production efficiency with optimised processes and shorter production times. POST-FIRING PROCESSING Post-firing treatments play an equally important role in enhancing ceramic surfaces. The technologies developed by Sacmi Group member company BMR allow for exceptionally high-quality polishing, satin finishing and crest lapping. These processes are now complemented by innovative solutions such as WoF (from Surfaces Group), which imparts a uniquely soft and silky touch to ceramic surfaces, making them ideal for a wide range of applications. V-NATURE, THE THROUGH-BODY VEINING LINE New ceramic applications – ranging from kitchen countertops and furniture (such as tables, consoles and bathroom fittings) to ornamental items – require three-dimensional dec-

FIG. 1 - STRUCTURING AND DIGITAL DECORATION LINE

LINE UP Vision system for electronic centring

DDG 2

DHD

DDG 1

Digital decoration with grits

Digital printing with inks, resisting agents and effects

Digital structuring with resisting inks and grits

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technology

oration. This means decorating the ceramic body using powders, flakes and material mixtures, all synchronised with digital surface printing. To create these products, Sacmi has developed V-Nature, a through-body veining technology that performs three-dimensional decoration prior to compaction using a V-Nature feeder. This is followed by continuous on-belt pressing with the PCR compactor and through-body vein vision systems that synchronise the subsequent DHD and DDG digital printers. This advanced technology allows for the production of exceptionally high-quality ceramic products that closely resemble natural stone and other materials. Several examples are showcased at Sacmi’s Tiles Lab in Imola, including travertine-effect ceramic slabs, furnishing items and designer washbasins created from 20 mm thick ceramic slabs. The decorative effect is clearly visible on all sides of these slabs, making them effectively double-sided. At Tiles Lab, the pursuit of new solutions and innovative products is an ongoing process. In collaboration with leading frit and glaze producers, Sacmi has successfully created a complete range of through-body veined products, including wood, stone, travertine and designer collections, several of which were exhibited at Tecna 2024. In the field of two-dimensional decoration, solutions have been developed for indoor and outdoor marble and stone applications. These integrate traditional digital decorations with glue and grit applications, followed by surface finishing treatments using technologies from BMR and Surfaces Group.

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FIG. 2 - THROUGH-BODY VEINING LINE

DHD / DDG Digital printing inks, effects and grits

V-Nature

PCR Compactor

SVV

Feeder for through-body veining

Continuous pressing on belt

Vision system for through-body veining

CWR INDIA 2026

LdfVaxZ Vkby Msdksj's ku esa fMftVy Økafr THE DIGITAL REVOLUTION IN SKIRTING TILE DECORATION Fulvio Masini, Officine Smac (Fiorano Modenese, Italy)

In the ongoing evolution of digital ceramic surface decoration, a new frontier has emerged. This time the focus is not on solutions for large tiles and slabs, but on an inkjet printer called EDGE that is designed to perform direct decoration of the edges of ceramic skirting tiles. Launched at Tecna 2024 in Rimini, EDGE is a one-of-a-kind system designed to meet new market demands for a high level of customisation, high-quality decorative details and reduced environmental impact, fulfilling all three needs with precision, efficiency and sustainability. In today’s highly competitive ceramic industry, skirting tile edge decoration is often overlooked but it is crucial for achieving visual continuity and a flawless finish. EDGE redefines this stage of production with a radically innovative, highly automated approach that combines next-generation inkjet technology with advanced materials and an optimised industrial workflow. At the heart of the system is a direct-to-edge printing process built on the new Round Drop Inkjet Technology platform. This exclusive technology deposits perfectly spherical ink droplets with high precision, ensuring uniform coverage even on slightly uneven or irregular surfaces. This results in exceptional detail and seamless continuity between the front and the edge of the skirting, creating an unprecedented perception of continuity in terms of material and colour. WATER-BASED INKS: PERFORMANCE AND ECO-COMPATIBILITY One of the most revolutionary features of EDGE is its water-based ink system, enhanced with a high-performance nanopolymer that penetrates deeply into the ceramic surface and bonds securely thanks to a dual firing process. This proprietary formulation delivers outstanding resistance to abrasion and to common chemicals such as alkaline detergents or mild solvents, while also representing a strategic choice in terms of sustainability. The absence of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) makes the entire process more environmentally friendly and safer for production personnel. EDGEWAVE KILN: INTELLIGENT, LOW-ENERGY POLYMERISATION Drying and fixing the ink is performed by the exclusive

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EDGEwave low-temperature kiln, a compact yet highly efficient unit that uses variable modulation waves to polymerise the ink while consuming far less energy than traditional gas kilns. This innovative system not only ensures perfect drying but also preserves the original colour tones and brilliance. Before entering the kiln, the ink undergoes an intermediate fixing stage using special SQ6 infrared lamps, which operate at 350°C in ultra-fast cycles. This step is essential for ensuring print stability and avoiding issues such as meniscus formation or colour migration, thereby guaranteeing consistently sharp, uniform definition. A COMPLETE COLOUR SYSTEM FOR TOTAL CREATIVE FREEDOM

TECHNICAL CHARACTERISTICS Printhead

Ricoh Gen5

Resolution

Up to 1280 dpi

Printhead width

55 mm

Number of nozzles

1280

Temperature control

Integrated heater and thermistor

Colour process

CMYK + W + optional Glossy

Number of printheads

Up to 6

Production speed

Up to 30 m. lin. /h

Y axes

Max 600 mm

Z axes

Max 150 mm

Inks

AQUOS by SMAC

Conveyor

Synchronic carpet (vacuum optional)

Interface

Ethernet

Power supply

AC 220V 50/60Hz

Operating environment

25°C, humidity 35-65% without condensation

EDGE operates with a six-colour system consisting of traditional CMYK along with a high-opacity white and a special Glossy channel for surface finish control. The white ink allows dark surfaces to be printed without losing colour vibrancy and saturation, thanks to the ability to perform overprinting with a high degree of precision. CWR INDIA 2026

The Glossy channel enables dynamic control of gloss levels, adding visual depth and varied tactility to the finished product. This level of flexibility allows for unprecedented creative freedom, making EDGE ideal for both high-volume production and small, high-value print runs. OPTIMISED WORKFLOW: FROM LOADING TO PACKAGING, WITHOUT INTERRUPTION The production flow is designed to ensure maximum efficiency. Skirting tiles are batch loaded directly onto the printer’s brushless motor-driven conveyor belt, the print width of 700 mm allowing for up to 70 pieces per cycle. Graphics are managed by the powerful Dina RIP software, which includes advanced automatic colour matching and continuous decoration alignment between the front and edge. This ensures perfectly consistent results even with complex designs or textured effects. An intuitive, customisable high-resolution touchscreen panel allows operators to control all print parameters, monitor material status and make real-time adjustments. MILLIMETRIC PRECISION WITH AXXY TECHNOLOGY Another distinctive feature of EDGE is the fact that it integrates the AXXY active height-reading system, which maintains the optimal distance between printheads and the surface of the skirting at all times. This ensures flawless print quality even on pieces with slight dimensional variations, guaranteeing perfect focus and consistent ink delivery. INDUSTRIAL PERFORMANCE: UP TO 2,000 PIECES/ HOUR AT 1280 DPI EDGE combines exceptional visual quality with the highest levels of productivity, printing up to 2,000 skirting tiles per hour at resolutions of up to 1280 dpi.

CWR INDIA 2026

technology This is achieved through the use of Ricoh Gen5 printheads, known for their reliability, durability and ability to reproduce fine details with vivid, consistent colour. EDGE: A STRATEGIC INVESTMENT FOR THE FUTURE OF CERAMICS In an industry increasingly focused on customisation, fast turnaround and sustainability, EDGE offers a forward-looking solution. Its combination of advanced technology, innovative materials and a fully digitalised production process reduces operating costs, energy use and production times while significantly improving perceived quality and product value. With EDGE, edge decoration is no longer a secondary detail but a key aspect of ceramic design, helping set new trends and standards in the production of porcelain stoneware tiles and accessories. EDGE is a complete, scalable and sustainable solution that elevates every detail of ceramic products, including the hidden edges, taking ceramic digital printing into a new era. It is a technology built on manufacturing excellence, continuous innovation and environmental responsibility. For companies with a strategic vision, EDGE is more than a printer – it is the new benchmark for the ceramic industry.

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ADVERTISING

flLVe fljsfeDl% 12 eghus dk bukso's ku SYSTEM CERAMICS: 12 MONTHS OF INNOVATION System Ceramics (Fiorano, Italy)

System Ceramics’ 2025 has been characterized by an unprecedented technology portfolio. The Coesia Group company, a global benchmark for solutions dedicated to the ceramic industry, has brought to market in a single year a range of technologies that spans from digital decoration to endof-line automation, from intelligent handling to modular storage systems. A strategic acceleration that responds to a precise vision: to support the transformation of international markets with differentiated technological solutions, capable of adapting to production specificities and the increasingly complex demands of customers distributed across very different geographic and economic contexts. DIGITAL DECORATION In the field of digital decoration, System Ceramics has introduced Infinity Sky, which brings the sector to never-before-reached levels, establishing new reference parameters for the entire industry. The platform integrates an architecture with up to 16 bars, water-based inks, and an advanced self-cleaning printhead system that ensures operational continuity and reduces production waste. The ability to customize configurations allows for unprecedented graphic effects and detail quality that opens new creative horizons for ceramic manufacturers. Alongside Infinity Sky, Infinity Dry represents the evolution of digital decoration with grit. Its selective pneumatic-based operation allows precise flow control, solving a fundamental challenge in this application process. The system also aspirates excess powders, recovers them, and recirculates them in a virtuous process that minimizes waste, ensuring high quality standards in a single pass. The technological evoInfinity Sky lution is based on the

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know-how developed with Genesis, which enables handling a wide range of materials with different volumetrics. Unlike current digital solutions, Infinity Dry can sequentially apply different grits with different bars, creating selective designs that meet the most sophisticated decorative requirements. A qualitative leap in terms of flexibility and process control. END OF LINE AUTOMATION AND LOGISTICS Speedwrap is the end-of-line solution with which System Ceramics expands its scope to the packaging segment, an area that is gaining increasing relevance in the market positioning of ceramic products. The system combines high operational speed and maximum versatility, thanks to two working modes that allow rapid adaptation to different production needs without compromising aesthetic quality and finished product protection. The expansion of the I-GV range confirms System Ceramics’ commitment to in-house development of factory logistics solutions. The laser-guided vehicles stand out for their ability to handle multiple load types and for their integration with the Next Generation System Manager, a software platform that uses AI algorithms to optimize operational flows, improve safety, and ensure energy efficiency through lithium batteries. MODULAR STORAGE SYSTEMS Among the most significant innovations of 2025 is the introduction of the Multifamily – Multicompenser, Multibuffer, Multistorage – three storage solutions that are redefining industry standards. This is a unified offering, built on a common technological foundation but declined into three different applications, each designed to

Infinity Dry

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Speedwrap

solve specific operational challenges and to transform daily critical issues - bottlenecks in production lines, machine stops that block the entire operational flow, increasingly limited production spaces, and rising energy costs - into an opportunity for innovation, reinterpreting the very concept of industrial storage. Multicompenser offers a compact solution for temporary buffering between upstream and downstream machines, ensuring maximum storage capacity per square meter and guaranteeing continuity even in case of line interruptions. It’s ideal for customers with limited production space, seeking convenience and simplicity without sacrificing effectiveness. Multibuffer is a compact, flexible, and highly comprehensive solution from a mechanical system standpoint, offering a more sophisticated response to flow optimization needs. It dynamically manages production gaps with a “piece-bypiece” loading/unloading system and represents the per-

Multibuffer

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Multicompenser

fect solution for production lines with higher technical and functional requirements. Multistorage, finally, represents the answer to long-term storage needs, synchronizing through independent rail-mounted shuttles the different rhythms between kilns, finishing, and polishing, with high capacity and perfect line integration. Total configurability makes it 100% customizable according to storage type, material handled, and the specific logistical integration of the production facility. System Ceramics’ 2025 represents a benchmark for the industrial technology sector: concentrating in one year the development and launch of multiple solutions covering the entire production chain requires design capability, organizational solidity, and long-term strategic vision. A result that positions the company not as a simple machinery supplier, but as a technology partner capable of anticipating market evolutions and accompanying its customers toward the ceramic industry of the future.

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Multistorage

CWR INDIA 2026

fljsfed fixesVa vkSj fMftVy lkexzh esa bVkfy;u mR—"Vrk ITALIAN EXCELLENCE IN CERAMIC PIGMENTS AND DIGITAL MATERIALS Inco Industria Colori (Pavullo, Italy)

With over 35 years of experience in the ceramic industry, Inco Industria Colori stands out as an excellent partner and a benchmark for “Made in Italy” innovation. Since 1988, the company’s mission has been clear: to deliver tailor-made solutions that combine outstanding technical performance with cutting-edge aesthetics. HIGH-PERFORMANCE PIGMENTS FOR IN-HOUSE INK PRODUCTION Inci’s technological core lies in the development of ultra-high-performance inorganic pigments, designed for companies aiming to produce superior-quality ceramic inks while optimizing time and costs. The range is available in different particle sizes (ICK, ICD, and the innovative ICQ series – Quick Inorganic Pigments). In particular, ICQ sub-micron pigments represent a true revolution in terms of: • Efficiency: Up to 40% reduction in milling time, with equivalent energy savings; • Quality: Higher color intensity, improved stability, and perfect filterability; • Sustainability: Reduced consumption of grinding media and optimized logistics. Thanks to Inco’s technical support, companies can successfully implement in-house production, ensuring always-fresh inks, significant cost reduction, and full compatibility with all printheads available on the market.

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technology

DIGITAL MATERIALS: BEYOND COLOR, TOWARD MATERIC EFFECTS For Inco, innovation goes beyond pigments. The company has developed Ceramic Digital Materials - special inks applied through drop-on-demand technology that transform tiles into high value-added products. These effects overcome the limits of two-dimensional decoration, adding volume, light, and texture. The range includes: • Glossy, Matt, and High-Opacity Whites: To play with reflections and contrasts. • Reactive Penetrating and Structuring Effects: To create millimetric depth and surface structures that faithfully reproduce natural materials such as stone and wood. • Digital Glues, glossy or matt: For the precise application of grits, delivering a three-dimensional effect to tile surfaces. Inco works side by side with ceramic manufacturers to digitally harmonize every stage—from relief to decoration—ensuring a smooth production process and impeccable aesthetics. With a range of over 30 high-performance pigments and a comprehensive portfolio of material effects, Inco provides not just products, but complete ceramic know-how. In an increasingly demanding market, the only limit is creativity.

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CWR INDIA 2026

bZVa vkSj Vkby m|ksx esa dPps eky dh rS;kjh ds fy, lw[kh rduhdsa DRY TECHNOLOGIES FOR RAW MATERIAL PREPARATION IN THE BRICK AND TILE INDUSTRY Minerali Industriali Engineering (Formigine – Italy)

Calcium carbonate inclusions have long been a major concern for manufacturers of extruded and pressed clay products. These calcareous fragments, which occur naturally in clayey and sandy raw materials, can cause surface defects such as flaking and, in more serious cases, compromise the structural integrity of finished products. Unlike common efflorescence, carbonate inclusions are an intrinsic component of the raw materials themselves and have a direct impact on final product quality. THE TECHNOLOGICAL SOLUTION: DRY-TECH HEAVYCLAY GRINDING The solution proposed by Minerali Industriali Engineering is based on cutting-edge dry grinding technology. The Dry-Tech Heavyclay system exploits the combined capacity of the P.I.G. hammer mill for coarse grinding and the Molomax Pendular mill for fine milling, drastically reducing the grain size of carbonate inclusions to below 0.2 mm and effectively neutralising their harmful effects. The result is a more homogeneous mixture and smoother, more uniform surfaces, allowing for the production of higher-quality extruded bricks and roof tiles. The process is further enhanced by the Molomax dynamic classifier, which ensures extremely precise particle size control, and the Madirex system, which controls the humidification phase to improve the workability and stability of the mix during extrusion. PLANTS ENGINEERED SPECIFICALLY FOR BRICK AND TILE PRODUCTION The plants built by Minerali Industriali Engineering are tailored to the specific production needs of the heavy clay industry and manage the entire particle size range, from initial grinding with P.I.G. mills through to fine milling with Molomax mills. This combined approach creates extruded products with a robust internal structure, improving mechanical strength and surface smoothness while significantly reducing production waste. The system can process raw materials with varying moisture levels and mineralogical compositions, ensuring both flexibility and consistency in finished products. THE KEY ROLE OF MOISTURE CONTROL Moisture control is essential after the grinding process. Dedicated humidifiers are used to regulate water content with precision and achieve the ideal plasticity for extrusion, thereby promoting uni-

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form drying and firing. This leads to lower energy consumption, reduced waste and greater process efficiency. Dry grinding also allows fired waste to be recycled back into production, bringing both environmental and operational benefits. TOWARDS A MORE EFFICIENT AND SUSTAINABLE PROCESS In today’s highly competitive heavy clay industry, combining advanced dry grinding technologies with expertise in raw material processing allows for the production of high-quality products through flexible and sustainable processes. Minerali Industriali Engineering’s integrated solutions represent the future of extruded and pressed product preparation, transforming longstanding challenges into opportunities for innovation, sustainability and added value throughout the production process.

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ADVERTISING

From Mine to Products Minerali Industriali Engineering is part of the Minerali Industriali group, independent Italian company with: 100 years of experience production operations in 10 countries economic activities in over 30 countries expertise in silica sand, quartz, feldspar, kaolin, clays and industrial waste

PHASE 1 Geological survey

PHASE 6 Customer care

PHASE 2a Laboratory test

PHASE 2b Minerals Treatment Centers MTCs

PHASE 5 Dedicated turnkey solutions

Minerali Industriali Engineering supplies mining machinery and turnkey plants for processing nonmetallic raw materials using both wet and dry treatments.

REC SOLUTIONS is a range of highly versatile processes for recycling waste from various industrial sectors, including ceramics, glass, stone agglomerate and industrial minerals. These processes are designed to be reused within companies’ internal production cycles, ensuring a quick return on investment and a significant reduction in disposal costs.

PHASE 3 Industrial test PHASE 4 Layout definition & engineering

Global expertise, tailored solutions.

MINERALI INDUSTRIALI ENGINEERING Headquarter: Via A. Coppi 56 41043 Formigine (MO) - Italy +39 059 5779755 info@minerali.com www.mineraliengineering.it

Discover the Italian Technology for Ceramic

energy saving

I.A.

Italian style

experience

trend

DESIGN

human centered approach

recovery of ceramic waste

SUSTAINABILITY

automation

digitalization

INNOVATION