According to an official of the Federation of Pakistan Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the local furniture industry has great potential to become one of the best earning sectors in the country. Pakistan has artisans, craftsmen and host of other skilled force to produce best handmade furniture and it has a huge demand in international market. Shortage of cash and proper marketing training are the biggest flaws facing the local industry which can make a substantial contribution to national economy. And billions of dollars annual export can be made if the government patronizes the furniture industry and creates its demand in overseas destinations.So far, the local furniture manufactures have booming business within the country where they have held a successful series of exhibitions in Karachi, Islamabad and Lahore. According to FPCCI official, the government should establish liaison with this sector to fully exploit the potentials of the local market and understand conditions and requirements of the industry for its development, promotion and protection. Currently, the textile sector is the largest industry in the country in terms of exports which stands at $14 billion annually. However, the furniture industry needs the government support to enable the manufactures to hold exhibitions and ensure that they get easy access to foreign markets.
The current exports of Pakistan’s furniture stand at $51 million which is peanuts. The industry has the capacity to bring up the exports to $5 billion mark in five years.The government should launch a comprehensive programme to develop and promote the furniture sector in urban and rural areas of the country. On the pattern of textile sector, a separate authority should be established not only to introduce modern techniques to the manufactures but also develop skilled labour to cater to the needs of the industry. However, the government has so far failed to acknowledge the potentials of this industry at any level.
The cities like Chiniot, Gujrat and Gojra have been emerging as the hub of furniture industry but the government support is required to get the product promoted in international markets. Pakistan itself has great market for furniture and imports Rs 4 billion worth of furniture annually. The local manufacturers should introduce their own brands and also participate in the international furniture exhibitions. It is unfortunate that the ‘Sheesham’ wood is smuggled in the garb of raw material and the government should also look into the matter. However, the furniture sector still awaits the government nod to declare it as an industry.
