Philippine furniture industry soars
Manila Standard
THE Philippines is considered one of the world’s best producers of fine furniture. The likes of Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie buy Kenneth Cobonpue’s furniture proudly made in Cebu.
The country began as an exporter of wicker and rattan furniture but the industry has diversified into different materials such as metal, leather, wood and bamboo. Other materials used are rattan, buri, and marble. It’s not just sofas and chairs anymore. Filipino furniture makers are now exporting desks, armoires, cabinets, kitchen storage units among others.
Cebu is the biggest source of world-class furniture, accounting for 20 percent of total volume. Over 300 furniture manufacturers and exporters are based in Cebu with companies providing direct employment to about 80,000 people.
In 2004, Cebu’s total furniture exports reached $120 million, which is 40 percent of total furniture exports of $294 million.
The industry is not without its problems. Furniture manufacturers and exporters import raw materials not available in the country. Filipinos also face stiff competition from countries with cheaper labor costs.
The United States-trained Cobonpue has put the country in the furniture spotlight with his bold and modern designs which make use of different materials such as bamboo and metal.
The Chamber of Furniture Industries of the Philippines is an association that works with companies, chapters and affiliates for the mutual benefit and sustained growth of the industry. The chamber is considered the catalyst and advocate of the Philippine furniture industry.
Every year, the organization holds the Philippine International Furniture Show-Manila Now to spotlight new designs and innovations in the industry. The chamber has even invited design masters such as Karim Rashid and Gaetano Pesce to collaborate with local designers.
Eduardo Zuluaga, chairman of Manila Now 2008, says the event is a new venue that showcases the inherent talent, skills and creativity of the Filipino.
Manila Now 2008 has been moved from Feb. 27 to March 5 to 8 at the SMX Convention Center so that it would be within the Asean furniture trade show circuit.
Zuluaga explains that the new schedule is right after the Malaysia International Furniture Fair and before the International Furniture Fair Singapore/Asean Furniture Show 2008.
“This makes it more convenient for buyers, because it is within the circuit. This means that buyers can effectively see six different countries in less than two weeks,” he says.
Zuluaga says this translates to bigger sales for participants and a higher volume of exports for the country.
The chamber has also teamed up with Global-Link Business Communications Phils. Inc. to market and professionally manage the show.
“This partnership is expected to increase buyer attendance by 20 percent,” says Zuluaga.
For information, call 750-8588 or 750-8585 or e-mail info@globallinkph.com.
Dinna Chan Vasquez
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