Malaysia 2011 furniture exports may rise to USD2.8b

Malaysia’s 2011 furniture exports are likely to improve by 9 percent to MYR8.7 billion (USD2.84 billion), provided the US dollar stabilises at the current level and manufacturers are able to secure enough foreign workers at their factories.

Malaysian Furniture Industry Council president Richard Lee said there was growing demand for Malaysian-made furniture from the US and Australia, especially now as American consumer spending is showing signs of recovery and Australians need to refurbish their homes after the big flood.

Traditional markets like the US and Europe tend to favour Malaysia over low-cost producers like China and Vietnam due to better quality control and reliable after-sales services.