Furniture export ranks among Thailand’s top fifteen exports. It has been growing encouragingly against great odds.
     The Asian financial crisis that broke out two years ago dealt the Thai economy a
very severe blow. In spite of some positive trends in recent months, recovery is still far from complete. Although continuing to grow albeit at a slower pace, Thailand’s furniture export is facing an ever increasing challenge from its neighbours, like Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines, and China. Competition has intensified and there is a growing shortage of raw materials. In spite of the adversity, we must try to survive.
     Thai furniture makers utilize such valuable materials such as teak, rosewood, metals, leather, ceramic, glass, as well as fabrics to fabricate and decorate their products. In the process, every care is taken to preserve the uniqueness and integrity of the Thai traditional style. Such delicate craftsmanship and designs have set Thai furniture apart and made it justifiably famous and much sought after the world over.
     I am deeply moved by the unreserved support extended to me and my fellow club members by various Thai authorities. In particular, I wish to thank the Ministry of Commerce, the Ministry of Industry, and the Department of Export Promotion for their past generous contributions, which made it possible for myself and fellow club members to take part in furniture shows in Europe, the Middle East, the United States, Japan, and Singapore. At the exhibitions, we were able to renew existing clientele and establish new ones. By expanding the customer base, we hope we will able to sell more and bring in ever more foreign exchange that our country sorely needs.

Mr. Decha  Koopthasornruk
Chairman of Thai Furniture Industry Club
The Federation of Thai Industries