Singapore: The Federation of Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Ficci) has taken steps to enhance ties between Indian and Singaporean furniture industries through a market outreach program. The Ficci Furniture Mission, led by Chair Rudra Chatterjee, held discussions with Singaporean businesses, aiming to explore collaboration opportunities.
"This mission marks a significant step towards strengthening the relationship between the Indian and Singaporean furniture industries," Chatterjee said after an interaction with the Singapore Furniture Industries Council (SFIC) on Wednesday. He expressed optimism about exploring new avenues that could spur growth and mutual prosperity.
SFIC President Phua Boon Huat echoed these sentiments, highlighting potential partnerships in areas such as sustainability, design, and market expansion. "We're happy to host the Ficci delegation, especially following our recent business mission to India last August," Phua said. He noted that some SFIC members are already active in the Indian market, further cementing bilateral ties.
The mission also included a roundtable discussion, supported by Enterprise Singapore, aimed at deepening partnerships for mutual growth. This initiative aligns with Ficci's broader goals to foster enhanced trade and business relationships between the two nations.
In 2023, Ficci signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with SFIC to promote bilateral trade in the furniture and lifestyle sectors. Indian High Commissioner to Singapore, Dr. Shilpak Ambule, also met with the Ficci delegation during the mission.
The business mission coincides with the third edition of FIND-Design Fair Asia, a major event in the furniture and interior design space, taking place from September 26-28, 2024. The Ficci delegation visited the fair to explore international connections and emerging design trends.
Ficci’s delegation included industry leaders such as Andre Eckholt, Co-Chair of the Ficci Furniture Committee, and Virendra Singh Ranawat, Co-Founder and CEO of Wooden Street, among others. The Indian furniture industry, backed by a strong manufacturing ecosystem and skilled labour force, presents vast opportunities for Singaporean businesses, Ficci noted.
The mission aims to bolster business collaborations between India and Singapore, ensuring mutual economic benefits through enhanced partnerships and trade