How important are the Japanese and American markets to furniture exporters in Thailand?
Sanpakit: Japan is Thailand’s largest importer of furniture, importing 35% of total furniture exports from Thailand, with the United States taking another 25%. Unfortunately, slowing economic growth and reduced consumer demand in the US has forced several major chain stores in the US to close down their outlets. As a result, distribution channels for furniture in the US market were narrowed down. In tackling this problem, many exporters have shifted to focus on the Japanese market instead. At the moment, the Japanese market is extremely competitive. It is the world’s biggest market for furniture and everybody is fighting so hard to establish themselves in this market. Exporters to the Japanese market are currently facing some difficulties as importers there are now trying to purchase directly from manufacturers in order to avoid trading companies who act as middlemen. This changing trend will affect Thai exporters, as they can no longer export large lots of furniture which is warehouse
