B.Mirror Desk: The 21st National Furniture Fair has commenced in the capital, showcasing modern designs, product diversity, and new innovations within the domestic furniture industry. Organized by the Bangladesh Furniture Industries Owners Association (BFSMOA), the five-day event is being held at the International Convention City Bashundhara (ICCB). Forty-four of the country’s leading furniture companies are participating, displaying a wide array of furniture and modern-designed products across 323 stalls.
The fair, which opened yesterday, is taking place in the Pushpaguchchha, Rajdarshan, and Navaratri halls of the ICCB. It is open to visitors daily from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM, with no entry fee. Additionally, customers can avail discounts of up to 15 percent on various furniture items during the fair.
Mohammad Hasan Arif, Vice Chairman and CEO of the Export Promotion Bureau (EPB), attended the opening ceremony as the chief guest. Special guests included Md. Fazlul Haque, Administrator of the FBCCI, and Dr. K. M. Akhtaruzzaman, President of the Bangladesh Furniture Exporters Association. The event was presided over by Selim H. Rahman, Chairman of the BFSMOA.
Speaking at the event, Mohammad Hasan Arif noted that the domestic furniture industry plays a vital role in the national economy and employment, in addition to meeting local demand. He highlighted that the sector experienced positive export growth during the first quarter of the current fiscal year—from July to September—signaling a recovery for the industry.
FBCCI Administrator Md. Fazlul Haque remarked that it is a matter of pride for the country that domestic furniture brands are establishing a presence in the international market, extending beyond traditional export sectors like the ready-made garment industry. According to him, a domestic furniture market worth approximately 30,000 crore BDT has developed, which is now entirely captured by the local industry. Selim H. Rahman, Chairman of BFSMS, stated that to sustain the progress of the domestic furniture industry, it is essential to increase investment in product quality, design, and technology. Simultaneously, it is necessary to ensure accessible financing for entrepreneurs and the availability of a skilled workforce.
Alhajj Sheikh Abdul Awal, convener of the fair committee and Vice-Chairman of BFSMS, noted that the National Furniture Fair provides a platform for domestic manufacturers to showcase new designs, product diversity, and innovations to consumers. With the participation of the country’s leading brands in one location, customers can compare the designs and features of various products to select furniture that best suits their needs.
Participating companies include well-known brands such as Akhtar, Hatil, Brothers, Nadia, Ayat, Omega, JMG, Navana, Athenas, Partex, Regal, and Legasy. The event will continue until October 31.
The overall management of the fair is being handled by the Design and Technology Center (DTC).