ISLAMABAD: The furniture manufacturers of the United States have shown a keen interest in Pakistani handmade furniture, underlining the need for collaborations with the Pakistan Furniture Council (PFC) to promote furniture business between the two countries.
The delegation, led by Gurjatinder Singh Randhawa, called on PFC Chief Executive Mian Kashif Ashfaq on Thursday and exchanged views on the matters of mutual interests, including enhancement of bilateral trade through furniture trade.
Gurjatinder Singh noted that there was significant potential in Pak-US furniture trade, as it could further strengthen investment relations between the two countries.
He said furniture demand in the US has been forecast to reach $59 billion in 2021 and there was a great opportunity for Pakistani furniture manufacturers to explore this potential to their benefit.
He suggested PFC focus on imparting modern training to local woodworkers to meet this demand.
Gurjatinder Singh said that the purpose of the delegation’s visit to Pakistan was to explore new avenues in the furniture sector, adding that “their experience has been excellent with regard to investment opportunities and overall security”.
He also appreciated Prime Minister Imran Khan for opening the Kartarpur corridor, saying that PM Imran Khan won the hearts of the millions of Sikhs across the globe.
He said he would urge the followers of the Sikh religion to invest in Pakistan, especially in the hospitality industry, so that best facilities could be provided to the Sikh pilgrims.
PFC Chief Executive Mian Kashif Ashfaq on the occasion briefed the delegation about the potential of the furniture sector in Pakistan.
He said there existed a significant scope for the promotion of Pak-US furniture trade. “We are making special efforts to increase furniture export so as to cater to the rising global demand,” he added.
When such business deals are established, Pakistani businesses must ensure consistent quality and reliability standards otherwise do not expect continued interest from customers, in Pakistan or off shore. Time and again Pakistani exports have failed because of shortcut in quality and reliability standards.