India’s tiles and marble industry is expected to sustain its growth momentum despite rising freight costs and supply chain disruptions caused by geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, with robust demand from the country’s housing, commercial real estate and infrastructure sectors providing strong support.
Industry stakeholders said the ongoing disruptions in the Red Sea shipping corridor have increased ocean freight rates, extended transit times and pushed up marine insurance premiums. Ceramic manufacturers, particularly in Gujarat’s Morbi manufacturing hub, are also facing higher fuel costs and supply constraints for imported propane and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), key inputs in tile production.
However, the sector remains optimistic as India’s expanding domestic manufacturing capabilities and strong construction activity are expected to offset the impact of global logistics challenges.
According to the latest CREDAI-Liases Foras report, India’s primary housing market recorded transactions worth over ₹8.46 lakh crore in 2025, a 16% year-on-year increase. Premium homes priced above ₹1 crore accounted for nearly 78% of the total sales value, reflecting sustained demand for high-quality construction materials.
Aparna Reddy, Executive Director of Aparna Enterprises Ltd, said India’s construction sector continues to demonstrate resilience despite global uncertainties. She noted that continued growth in housing, commercial real estate and infrastructure development is driving demand for durable, sustainable and premium surface materials, while the country’s strong manufacturing ecosystem and focus on innovation will help the industry navigate short-term disruptions.
Industry experts also highlighted changing consumer preferences, with homebuyers increasingly investing in premium interiors and high-quality finishes, further boosting demand for tiles, marble and other building materials.
Sidharth Jain, President of NAREDCO NextGen NCR and Director of Tulip Infratech, said higher logistics costs linked to geopolitical developments are likely to remain a temporary challenge. He added that strong housing demand, commercial expansion and infrastructure investments continue to support the sector, with developers placing greater emphasis on quality construction and durable materials.
Despite near-term cost pressures, industry participants remain confident that India’s rapid urbanisation, expanding housing pipeline and continued infrastructure spending will keep the tiles and marble industry on a long-term growth trajectory.
