The federation of the state of Espírito Santo promotes growth
Aureo Mameri is the president of Sindirochas, the federation of the state of Espírito Santo.
STONEREPORT: Mr Mameri, how do you assess the present situation in the stone industry in Espírito Santo?
Aureo Mameri: The natural stone sector is of key importance for Espírito Santo, as it achieves seven per cent of the gross domestic product and secures 130000 jobs. Our state is the largest exporter of natural stone in Brazil. Our exports accounted for a share of almost 62 per cent of total Brazilian exports from January to September 2006, compared with some 375 million euros in 2005. Our target is one billion US dollars (760 million euros) by 2008, which will also create new jobs.
STONEREPORT: How many members has your association?
Aureo Mameri: 430 of the 890 companies in Espírito Santo are members of Sindirochas.
STONEREPORT: What are your expectations for the future?
Aureo Mameri: We must overcome the existing obstacles in the near future, as they hinder growth in the natural stone industry. Sindirochas together with other organizations like CentroRochas, Cetemag or CrediRochas has prepared projects for this, for stimulating state investment, for example. Diversification is just as important – 85 per cent of finished products from Espírito Santo go to the USA. The world market demands that Brazilian companies adjust to stronger competition, higher quality requirements, market-based prices and ecological and social responsibility. We can only achieve this together.
STONEREPORT: What are Brazil’s main markets?
Aureo Mameri: The USA with a share of 80 per cent is the main customer for finished products, whereas China and Italy with a 60 per cent share are the main buyers of our rough blocks.
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