Malaysia’s furniture industry has secured its place among the top 10 largest furniture exporters in the world, with approximately 80% of its production destined for international markets. The country has positioned itself strongly in the global furniture landscape, particularly in markets like the United States, Japan, and Australia. Recent export trends reveal significant growth in countries like the United Kingdom, United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, the Philippines, and Russia. Malaysia’s expanding reach even extends to emerging markets such as Algeria, Greece, Puerto Rico, and Libya.
The success of Malaysia’s wood furniture industry is a remarkable tale, closely tied to the resurgence of rubberwood. Once heralded as the world’s leading source of natural rubber, the rubber tree lost its prominence in Malaysia’s economy. However, the transformation of rubberwood into a prominent source of timber, driven by the Forest Research Institute of Malaysia (FRIM) in 1978, breathed new life into the industry. This shift catapulted Malaysia into a leading position as a wood furniture producer and exporter, serving over 160 countries worldwide.
The Malaysian government, guided by the National Timber Industry Policy, envisions the furniture industry contributing RM12 billion in exports by 2020. It actively supports the sector’s growth through various initiatives. Recent years have seen the industry transition from generic products to design-driven offerings, propelling Malaysia onto the international stage. With a focus on aesthetics and quality, Malaysia remains a sought-after destination for overseas buyers, particularly those in the middle to high-end category. With its competitive edge, high-quality products, and a promising market, Malaysia’s furniture industry continues on a trajectory of remarkable global expansion.
Malaysia International Furniture Fair which is one of the most prominent furniture exhibitions will take place from 1 – 4 March 2024 at the World Trade Centre and Malaysia International Trade & Exhibition Centre located in the centre of Kuala Lumpur. The 4 days exhibition will feature more than 650 exhibitors from Malaysia and several other countries such as Thailand, Indonesia, USA, China, Australia, Cambodia, Taiwan and India. All types of furniture, furniture accessories, fittings, materials and hardware will be displayed during the event.
Last year, 20,000 visitors attended the programme with more than 5,000 are from overseas. Mr. Wan Ahmad Tarmizi Wan Idris, the Trade Commissioner of MATRADE in Chennai urged Indian companies looking for quality and affordable furniture to visit MIFF this year. The office is ready to assist the visitors from India to be connected with reliable Malaysian exporters of various type of furnitures. For more details about the event and opportunities in Malaysian furniture market, please contact:
Mr. Ramaneedharan
Marketing Manager
Consulate General of Malaysia in Chennai (Trade Section)
MATRADE
E-mail: [email protected]/[email protected]
Web: www.matrade.gov.my
