Opening Ceremony

                     
 

International Furniture Fair Singapore (IFFS) 2013 began on a bright note with celebrations marking 30 years of the ASEAN Furniture Show (AFS) and a birthday surprise for the guest-of-honour, Mr. Lee Yi Shyan, Senior Minister of State, Ministry of Trade and Industry, and Ministry of National Development.

Over the years, IFFS has attracted much international participation and visitation, but always receives the strongest support from neighbouring ASEAN countries, backed by various furniture industry associations in the region.

In his opening address, Mr. Ernie Koh, Chairman of IFFS Pte Ltd and President of Singapore Furniture Industries Council (SFIC), noted that the number of Southeast Asian delegates at IFFS has increased over the years. At the same time, the show has attracted the attention of the rising number of US and European furniture manufacturers keen on breaking into Asia, which is set to be the next frontier.

SMS Lee concurred that the Asia Pacific furniture sector is poised for growth, alongside markets in South America, Middle East and Central Eastern Europe. In addition, the guest-of-honor encouraged local furniture brands to tap on government aid as they venture into untapped territories.