According to a news article in Tribune, Pakistan’s furniture industry, known for its craftsmanship and intricate designs, has significant export potential but faces challenges that hinder its global competitiveness.
Although markets like the US, UK, and Middle East show growing demand for Pakistan’s handcrafted wooden furniture, exports remain a small fraction of the industry’s $1 billion value. A leading manufacturer noted, “Our furniture is well-received globally, but we lag in quality and international standards needed to boost exports.”
The industry struggles with outdated machinery, rising raw material costs, and inconsistent power supply. Muhammad Kamran, a manufacturer from Chiniot, emphasised, “Without modernising production, we can’t keep up with global competition.” Additionally, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which dominate the sector, face difficulties with high energy costs and lack resources to manage power outages.
Ali Hamza, a Lahore-based exporter, added, “Government support in the form of streamlined export processes, subsidies for machinery, and public-private partnerships to train the workforce is crucial to unlock the industry’s full potential.”
Manufacturers believe that with proper investment in technology and innovation, Pakistan can become a significant player in the global furniture market.
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