The odyssey of Pakistani furniture sector.

• Author: Ahmed, Khalil

Byline: Khalil Ahmed

Pakistan, an agro-based economy with nominal GDP of $236 billion, imports furniture worth billions of rupees every year. During exhibitions, Pakistan-made furniture is exhibited, however, the imported furniture is given equal rather more preference. As regards prices, the imported furniture is relatively expensive vis-a-vis the local furniture. Pakistan's furniture export has been dismal over the period whereas there is hike in import. In addition to the export to the United States of America, United Kingdom, South Africa, Australia and the United Arab Emirates, Pakistan needs to concentrate on the export opportunities available in the leading furniture importing countries. United States of America, Germany, United Kingdom, France and Canada are the leading furniture importing countries globally. Undoubtedly, Pakistan would have to come up with innovative ideas to compete with the spectacular furniture exporting countries namely China, Germany, Italy, Poland and the United States of America.

Pakistan's furniture market is believed to be worth around $3 billion. Global furniture market size is believed to be worth around $600 billion at present and is expected to be worth over $700 billion in a couple of years. This whopping figure calls for certain measures which may help the economy of Pakistan prosper. Locally made furniture is first rate, however, the imported furniture is being marketed more than the local furniture in Pakistan, which undoubtedly is out of this world.

Pakistani cities namely Chiniot, Gujrat, Peshawar and Gojra are popular for furniture. Gujrat, Chiniot, Multan, Peshawar, Rawalpindi and Karachi are deemed mainstay for the furniture trade and manufacturing. There are thousands of artisans living in these cities who produce masterpieces, which could be exported to earn foreign exchange for the country. Modern technology, creativity and innovation are the hallmark of the Pakistani furniture. Pakistan's renowned furniture styles comprise Antique, Mughal, Modern and Oriental. There is no denying the fact that Pakistan's furniture sector has got breakthrough and has made marvelous strides in the wake of quality and workmanship. Pakistani furniture is not only made of wood but also plastic, metal, glass, leather and rubber to cater to multifarious segments of the market.

Gone are the days when furniture such as tables, chairs, beds, sofas...