Commerce adviser Sheikh Bashir Uddin said that the government was working to find new markets for the furniture industry.
He made these remarks while speaking as chief guest at the inauguration of the 20th National Furniture Fair 2025 at International Convention City Bashundhra in Dhaka on Tuesday.
He said that the furniture industry has huge potential and investment should be further increased for the development of this industry.
He urged entrepreneurs to properly utilise country鈥檚 resources and opportunities to strengthen Bangladesh鈥檚 position the global furniture market.
He further said, 鈥楤uyers were turning away not because of the price of furniture, but because of the lack of innovation. The government is negotiating free trade agreements with some countries, which will create new opportunities for this industry.鈥�
The inaugural ceremony of the fair was presided over by the Bangladesh Furniture Industry Owners Association chairman Selim H Rahman.
The leaders of the organisation, including senior vice-chairman Md Ilias Sarkar, vice-chairman Sheikh Abdul Awal, secretary general A Karim Majumder and organising secretary Mohammad Maksudur Rahman were also present.
Mohammad Hasan Arif, vice-chairman (chief executive) of the Export Promotion Bureau, laid emphasis on export diversification and said that it was possible to produce international quality products using own raw materials, modern technology and skilled manpower.
He said, 鈥楾he government has already identified the furniture sector as an export potential sector. Such fairs help entrepreneurs build networks and create opportunities to showcase domestic furniture at the international level.鈥�
He urged entrepreneurs to innovate in technology, design and quality, and assured them of long-term support in this sector.
A total of 48 leading furniture companies were participating in this year鈥檚 fair. Participants will showcase the latest designs and products in 278 stalls.
Notable brands participating include Akhtar, Hatil, Brothers, Nadia, Ayat, Omega, JMG, Navana, Athenas, Partex, Regal and Legacy.
