LAHORE: A high level 4-member Chinese furniture manufacturer’s delegation at the invitation of Pakistan Furniture Council will visit Pakistan for three-days from 10 October to tap new prospects of mutual investment in the field of the furniture industry and further strengthen the existing bilateral trade relations with Pakistani counterparts.
Talking to media here on Monday, Pakistan Furniture Manufacturers Association President Mian Kashif Ashfaq said the delegation will aim to link business leaders, researchers and investors of both countries and added that the tour would enable investors to identify potential organisations to partner and develop successful regional economic strategies and support regionally vital businesses.
He said Pakistan’s furniture with calligraphic engraving has great demand in international markets, which seems to be dominant in Pakistan; therefore Pakistani craftsmen should focus on working in this particular area to earn the much-needed foreign exchange.
He said that Pakistan has excellent craftsmen and designers, who could virtually give life to a piece of wood. Pakistan also has potential to capture its share of the international market because local industry in Pakistan has the finest wood available in the country.
“All this can happen if the government shows willingness and a vision amongst furniture traders. Joint ventures with China through trade commissions for providing machines on a lease can bring product quality at par with highest international standards.
But for this to happen, the furniture industry in Pakistan must vigorously transform from cottage or small scale industry to innovative industry through training, upgrading supplies and imports,” he added.
On this occasion, PFC Secretary Hamid Mahmood said despite the massive influx of inexpensive Chinese furniture in the markets, Pakistani handmade furniture is still admired among masses for its customary designs, durability and quality.
He pointed that furniture exports from Pakistan were hovering between $ 8 million to $ 12 million per annum, which did not reflect even a fraction of the actual potential of the furniture industry.
The said delegation will also sign Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and call on PFC Chief Mian Kashif Ashfaq and finally visit ChenOne furniture factory at Khurrianwala district Faisalabad.
