Call to give furniture sector industry status

LAHORE:Pakistan Furniture Council (PFC) Chief Executive Kashif Ashfaq on Sunday urged the government to accord the furniture sector as an independent industry status in the upcoming national annual budget.

Chairing a board of directors meeting, he emphasised that the status change is crucial for boosting exports and driving economic growth. He pointed out that the furniture sector holds significant potential for export earnings, yet it remains underdeveloped due to the lack of formal industry recognition and support.

To unlock this potential, he proposed that the government should introduce a comprehensive package of incentives for the furniture industry. These incentives could include tax breaks, subsidies for raw materials, and easier access to credit for small and medium-sized enterprises. Additionally, he called for investment in skill development and technology to enhance the quality and competitiveness of locally produced furniture in international markets, he added.

Ashfaq highlighted that with the right support, Pakistan's furniture sector could compete globally, creating jobs and contributing to the country's economic stability. He stressed that the government's proactive measures in this regard would not only benefit the furniture manufacturers but also uplift related sectors such as timber, textiles, and logistics. Recognising the furniture sector as an industry, according to him, is a strategic move to diversify Pakistan's export portfolio and strengthen its economic resilience, he concluded.