Bashir calls for major innovation drive in furniture sector

Commerce Adviser Sk Bashir Uddin today urged entrepreneurs of the furniture sector to prioritize innovation, utility creation, and product diversity. 

"The goal should be to create products whose high value encourages consumers to spend money to purchase them, generating enthusiasm among shoppers," he said.

The adviser made the remarks while speaking as the chief guest at the inaugural session of the five-day '20th National Furniture Fair 2025,' at the International Convention City Bashundhara (ICCB) in the city.

The country's largest furniture industry event began under the slogan, "My country, my hope-let's decorate homes with local furniture."

Organised by the Bangladesh Furniture Industries Owners Association (BFIOA), this year's exhibition is notably being held on a larger scale compared to previous years.

In his address, Bashir Uddin emphasised the sector's potential and called upon entrepreneurs to increase investment for the furniture industry's development.

He urged stakeholders to consider how quickly the nation can secure a place in the global furniture market by efficiently utilising national opportunities and combining available resources.

BFIOA Chairman Selim H Rahman, who presided over the inauguration event, stated that the local furniture industry currently meets 100 per cent of domestic demand while also exporting a significant volume of products abroad.

The core objective of this year's fair is to further promote the growth of the local furniture industry and expand export markets, he added.

Vice Chairman of the Export Promotion Bureau (EPB) Mohammad Hasan Arif and President of the Bangladesh Furniture Exporters Association Dr KM Aktaruzzaman also attended the inaugural event. 

A total of 48 leading furniture companies are participating in the fair. These companies are showcasing their latest designs and products across 278 stalls.

Notable brands present at the fair include Akhtar, Hatil, Brothers, Nadia, Ayoto, Omega, JMG, Navana, Athenas, Partex, Regal, and Legacy.

Beyond traditional furniture, the fair is also displaying home accessories and decorative items.

The event is open to everyone, and no tickets are required for entry. Visitors can explore the fair daily from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm.