| SHENZHEN: The special economic zone of Shenzhen was
the nation's largest exporter of furniture last year, with more
than 30 per cent of the nation's total production.
Furniture exports accounted for US$850 million in 2000,
according to figures from the Shenzhen Furniture Trade Association
(SFTA).
The total value of furniture produced in the city reached
US$1.7 billion last year, an increase of 15 per cent, according to
Shenzhen customs.
More than 55 per cent of the furniture produced in the city is
exported to the United States, Europe and South America. Most is
medium and high-class panel and upholstered furniture.
"The improvement of product quality and techniques, the
novel design as well as the brand promotion all help bring us onto
the world market," said Hou Kepeng, secretary-general of SFTA.
Shenzhen now has 1,100 furniture manufacturing companies,
producing various kinds of office and home furniture.
Many have introduced advanced production equipment.
Unlike domestic rivals who imitate foreign patterns, Shenzhen
companies have tried to strengthen their designing and creative
abilities to increase their competitiveness.
Many Shenzhen furniture companies have participated in
international furniture exhibitions held in Singapore, Russia and
Italy to learn about emerging trends.
"The Shenzhen furniture industry has taken the lead in
China and gradually built up a positive image around the
world," Hou said.
Although making furniture is labour-intensive, furniture
companies could still increase their efficiency by adopting
information technology and automated production, Hou said.
To meet the increasing demand for professional furniture
designers, SFTA, China Furniture Association and other
organizations plan to invest 30 million yuan (US$3.6 million) in
setting up a furniture design institution later this year.
(www.chinadaily.com.cn) |
