Demand for furniture from Philippines strong

Dubai: Although major construction projects in the region have been scaled down, furniture firms in the Philippines continue to enjoy brisk business with the UAE, as the value of furnishings shipped to the country in the first half of 2008 nearly doubled the exports in 2006.

Statistics released by the Philippine Trade and Investment Centre in Dubai showed the country's furniture and furnishings exports to the UAE grew from $2.62 million (Dh9.62 million) in 2006 to $3.84 million in 2007.

January to June this year, Philippine furniture exports to the UAE reached $4.08 million.

To capitalise further on the UAE's interiors and construction sector, furniture suppliers in the Philippines have descended on Dubai, showcasing their products made from indigenous materials.

The companies are participating in Index 2008, an industry event for furniture, home accessories, textile and interior design services that runs from December 3 to 7 at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre.

Record-breaking

Index 2008 organisers said that while the construction of major projects in the UAE have slowed, there are still record breaking contracts across the GCC countries for the fit-out of commercial and residential buildings, hotels, retail outlets and mixed-used developments that are slated for completion next year.

"Budgets for the interior fit out of buildings reaching completion next year and in 2010 continue to show there is still tremendous demand for residential, contract and public furniture," said Index exhibition director Kim Willis.

Increase

The number of French companies participating in Index 2008 has increased significantly this year, illustrating the growing ties between France and the UAE.

The world's major suppliers of furniture, fixtures and fittings are taking part in Index, the largest interiors exhibition of its kind in the Middle East and Asia. Organisers said 99 French companies have turned out in force, compared to 53 in 2007 and 43 in 2006.

UAE-France trade currently exceeds $6 billion (Dh22 billion), with 80 per cent made up of imports from France. Furniture, fittings and interior design products and services make up a significant proportion, according to the French Trade Commission, the pavilion organisers

"With both the Sorbonne and the Louvre locating here, art and design is increasingly important in the growing cultural and business relationship between France and the UAE," said a commission spokesman.