PFC holds 9th Interiors Pakistan exhibit

LAHORE: Punjab Governor Malik Muhammad Rafique Rajwana on Friday said Pakistani handmade furniture products have potential to capture the world market with excellent modern designing.

Inaugurating a three-day 9th Interiors Pakistan mega exhibition, at the expo centre, he urged the businessmen to work extensively to promote the local industry in Pakistan. “Pakistan is blessed with abundant resources and our people are equipped with the best skills that can help develop the country on modern lines.”

He appreciated the various stalls and said these were a unique combination of traditional art and modern day requirements. “Joint efforts have to be made on modern lines to gain optimum access to international markets for locally manufactured furniture and accessories,” he added.

Rajwana said the government would fully support the furniture industry to exploit its potential for boosting the production and maximise export worldwide. “The furniture industry in Pakistan has great potential as it can be both a labour intensive and capital intensive sector.”

The governor said skilled craftsmen could create unique pieces while large scale factories could produce identical units – in both cases adding to the employment.

“I am delighted to support the Pakistan Furniture Council (PFC), a body committed to promoting Pakistani skill and craftsmanship, as well as creating international linkages to encourage trade.” Rafique Rajwana congratulated Pakistan Furniture Council Chief Executive

Mian Kashif Ashfaq on exhibition and expressed commitment to support future endeavours.

Mian Kashif demanded the government to give furniture and interior decoration the status of industry, besides announcing a package of incentives to local manufacturers so they could enhance the volume of their export items to gain their significant share in the international market.