At a press conference and ceremony held at the Ministry of Trade in Jakarta on 15 July, the launch of the second edition of the Indonesia International Furniture Expo was officially announced. The annual IFEX furniture tradeshow is organised by the Indonesia Furniture and Craft Association (AMKRI) and PT Dyandra UBM International and will be held from 12-15 March 2015 at the Jakarta International Expo exhibition center.

Speaking at the launch event, Mrs. Nus Nuzulia Ishak, Director General for National Export Development of the Ministry of Trade, said: "I sincerely hope that IFEX 2015 will spur further growth of the Indonesian furniture and craft industries and will inspire innovation and creativity of domestic artisans."

Mr. Soenoto, Chairman of AMKRI remarked: "Indonesia's furniture exports last year totaled US$1.7 billion, making us the 18th biggest furniture exporter in the world. I am certain that this exhibition will play a significant role in helping Indonesia achieve its target of US$5 billion in exports of furniture and craft products within the next four years."

The first edition of IFEX, held in March this year, had over 400 exhibiting companies from 13 countries and attracted 6,113 buyers, of which one-third were from overseas. More than 80% of the available exhibit space for the 2015 show has already been reserved, reflecting the strong success of the first show. The organisers are increasing the exhibition space to accommodate the strong demand from exhibiting companies. In addition, the organisers announced that there will be a "Hall of Excellence" that will showcase the highest grade of furniture and furnishings produced in Indonesia.

Mr. Ernst Remboen, President Director of PT Dyandra UBM International said: "Right from the start, IFEX has established itself as one of the most important furniture exhibitions in Asia. Indonesia has abundant supplies of raw materials for furniture making, such as woods and rattan, a large and skilled labour force, and a rich tradition of craftsmanship and design. It is well positioned to supply the world market with high-quality furniture items to suite all tastes and budgets." Reflecting these comments, the organisers have chosen "Merging local traditions with modern touch" as the slogan for IFEX 2015.

Facts and Figures about IFEX 2014

Organized by: PT Dyandra UBM International and Indonesia Furniture and Handicraft Association (AMKRI)
Dates: 11-14 March 2014
Venue: Jakarta International Expo
Exhibition size: 30,000 sqm (gross), 17,000 sqm (net exhibit space)
Number of exhibitors:400 companies
Number of visitors: 6,113 (2,021 overseas from 108 countries; 4,092 domestic)