Alentejo launches first regional marble association, ALMA

Around 40 marble industry entrepreneurs and professionals gathered at the Hotel Marmòris in Vila Viçosa, Portugal, to present the creation of ALMA – Alentejo de Mármore, Associação Regional, the first regional body dedicated to representing the Alentejo marble sector. The initiative, promoted by Dr. Francis Kezirian, president and CEO of Solubema and Etma, aims to unite companies and workers from the Estremoz, Borba and Vila Viçosa municipalities, strengthen institutional representation, and promote Alentejo marble in regional, national and international markets. Municipal representative Dr. Tiago Salgueiro highlighted the sector’s strategic importance for the local economy and identity. Formal registration of the association is expected by early September, with plans to expand membership and enhance the sector’s competitiveness.

The new association seeks to create a cooperative platform for the marble value chain, improve dialogue with public and private entities, and support initiatives that boost the competitiveness of Alentejo’s marble producers and artisans.