Sluggish furniture market data shows that exports are still growing
June 19 13:01:54, 2025
The 2012 China Furniture Export Forum recently convened in Dalingshan, known as "China's First Furniture Export Town." Zhu Changling, the president of the China Association for the First Time, addressed concerns about China’s furniture exports growing at a rate of 28% from January to August. He emphasized that while some may question the industry's prosperity, the data does indeed reflect genuine growth. Hosted jointly by the China Furniture Association and the People’s Government of Dalingshan Town in Dongguan City, the forum brought together over 300 attendees, including Zhu Changling himself, provincial and municipal furniture associations, characteristic areas, and company representatives.
During the forum, significant developments were noted in certain segments of the furniture export market. Zhu Changling highlighted that while the export of wooden furniture, which constitutes a substantial portion of exports, has grown slowly, there has been a noticeable negative growth in the export of bamboo, rattan, and wicker furniture. Consequently, the proportion of these commodities within the industry's overall exports has decreased, presenting challenges for domestic companies. On the other hand, the metal furniture and furniture parts sector demonstrated impressive growth, with an annual increase exceeding 30%. These categories now account for 44.5% of total furniture exports, with sofas and mattresses experiencing double-digit growth rates.
In the latter half of the year, domestic furniture sales began showing an upward trend. Guo Shanhui, a prominent figure in the Chinese furniture industry and chairman of the All-China Federation of Taiwan Enterprises as well as Taiwan Sheng International Group, urged the forum to consider supportive measures for businesses. He proposed reducing or suspending certain taxes and fees, assisting manufacturers in meeting stringent environmental standards, training a large number of furniture R&D and design professionals, and organizing design exhibitions. Such initiatives, he argued, would play a critical role in shaping the future of China’s export furniture industry. Guo emphasized that only surviving enterprises could muster the strength to transform and upgrade, daring to dream of a brighter future.
Guo Shanhui also recommended to Zhan Wenguang, the secretary of the Dalingshan Township Committee, that the government establish a specialized agency to guide enterprises in obtaining prestigious certifications such as Chinese Famous Brand and Well-Known Trademark. He noted that the application process is complex, and with dedicated guidance, Dalingshan could become the town with the highest number of renowned furniture trademarks, enhancing its competitiveness in both domestic and international markets.
Chen Aimin, chairman of Dongguan Fuyun Furniture Co., Ltd. and head of the Dalingshan Furniture Association, observed that the domestic furniture market saw a gradual downturn in 2012. However, the second half of the year witnessed a positive trend in domestic sales, with rigid demand rebounding.
Dalingshan, being the first furniture export town in China, could benefit from implementing measures to support enterprises, including tax relief and assistance in meeting environmental regulations. Chen Aimin echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that only by ensuring survival could companies achieve transformation and upgrade their capabilities to dream of a prosperous future.
Consumer preferences now lean toward personalized products and branded items. The average transaction amount for furniture purchases is rising, reflecting an increase in the sophistication of consumer spending. Industry experts predict that natural market adjustments will lead to the elimination of less competitive firms, fostering a healthier development trajectory for the furniture sector.
Many international furniture factories, despite their rich heritage, struggle with outdated equipment and aging workforces, lacking vitality. Yet, they possess valuable brands and established product lines, which Chinese furniture companies lack. Collaborative opportunities exist where these brands and products could be revived by relocating production to China.
Lin Zuoxin, chairman of the Asian Furniture Federation and head of Singapore Home, shared insights on the current state of the international furniture industry. He suggested that instead of focusing on expansion, companies should concentrate on intensive cultivation and innovation to sustain their achievements and ensure long-term operations. Lin emphasized that the current global economic climate remains challenging, with the European debt crisis posing significant risks, alongside weak economic conditions in the U.S., Japan, and other key markets.
Looking ahead, Lin recommended exploring new business models, such as joint ventures among domestic manufacturers to promote brands globally. Greater coordination in production processes—where each factory specializes in specific components—could enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve product quality.
Ultimately, Lin concluded that the Chinese furniture industry should shift focus from the pursuit of size and strength to a more measured approach, nurturing growth through steady effort and strategic innovation.