Furniture made in Pakistan has great scope in the UK, US, Sri Lanka, and all Gulf states, and there is a dire need to explore new markets to achieve the furniture export target of more than $850 million a year, an industry leader said on Saturday.

Pakistan Furniture Council (PFC) Chief Executive Mian Muhammad Kashif Ashfaq, on returning from a furniture fair in the US, said the main objective of this tour was to explore new markets, and build connections with the American business community in the furniture industry.

Ashfaq said that furniture with calligraphic engravings had great demand in local and international markets.

Pakistani craftsmen should focus on working in this particular area to earn the much-needed foreign exchange.

He further said that Trade Development Authority of Pakistan should support exporters of furniture at international furniture exhibitions.

“Small businesses often have specific financing needs and may require funding support to compete in the international markets or to fulfil export-related supply chain contracts.

Therefore, it is the government’s responsibility to give furniture, the status of industry in Pakistan,” he said.

(Source: thenews.com.pk)