Sponsored by the China Building Materials Industry Association and China Council for the Promotion of International Trade, the exhibition alternates each year between Beijing and Shanghai. The show is organized by the CCPIT Building Materials Sub-council, China Stone Materials Industry Association and CIEC Exhibition.

This year's exhibition featured more than 500 exhibitors from 29 countries and regions. Display booths offered the almost 27,000 people who attended a full range of stone products, machinery, tools and accessories, and maintenance and stonecare products.

With approximately 100 more exhibitors than Stonetech 2003 Beijing, the Shanghai event was considered a success. According to organizers, 69.6% of exhibitors were from Asia, 24.4% hailed from the European Union, 3.2% came from Africa, 2.6% from the U.S. and 0.2% were from Australia. Companies from various countries, including Italy, Turkey, Egypt, Brazil, Spain and Finland, joined together and exhibited their displays in national pavilions. Additionally, a “stone forum” was held during the exhibition. Speakers from the government, the association and companies were invited to speak on topics concerning the development of the stone industry in China and the changes of China's stone market in the future.

Because China's stone industry has been experiencing rapid growth over the years, more companies from around the world are showing interest in this market. As a result, Stonetech is continuing to expand as well. The 2008 Olympic Games, which will take place in Beijing, will also provide an opportunity for growth. It is anticipated that this event will increase building and construction in China, with obvious advantages of using natural stone.

Stonetech 2005 Beijing is scheduled for March 14 to 17, 2005. The exhibition will be held at the China International Exhibition Centre.