Cebu's furniture industry seeking government help
Brian Carroll -- Furniture Today, April 21, 2003
Cebu City, Philippines — The furniture industry here has asked the government to help it remain vital in the face of competition from Chinese manufacturers.
The Cebu Furniture Industry Foundation, organizers of the recent Cebu furniture fair, is requesting tax incentives and financing to expedite imports of raw materials into the country, said Nelia Navarro, the Cebu director for the Department of Trade and Industry.
In the past, Cebu's furniture sector claimed China was not a competitor because it made more promotional goods. But China has steadily improved and now is considered the No. 1 competitor.
Navarro said the tax incentives would help CFIF manufacturers invest in new equipment and more modern machinery.
The CFIF also asked the government's help in setting up an international trade and exhibition center. The center could make it easier to import raw materials in volume to better compete with China, and would give manufacturers a world-class showcase for Philippine-made goods.
Manufacturers also are seeking financing help to mitigate the effects of high interest rates.
