Jan. 14 – “The wood furniture sector is worth €28 billion and counts a total of 360,000 employees,” yet exports “are partially offset by the decline in domestic consumption,” commented the President of FederlegnoArredo Roberto Snaidero, who met in Rome the Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Gentiloni. Addressing the issue, Snaidero recalled that the goal of the Federation is to promote member companies’ entrance and expansion into the new markets, seeking potential customers and partnerships to create stable ties with foreign operators in order to establish concrete business opportunities. The areas of most interest today are China and Russia. The Chinese market offers enormous potential: in 2019, it will double its high-end furniture imports from Italy and will be the fourth outlet market for Italian exports of furniture. “The joint effort – continued Snaidero – increased the number of initiatives to promote Italian design, and will help improve Italian furniture’s market power and visibility.” Minister Gentiloni confirmed the Ministry’s interest in a constructive dialogue with the Federation. “FederlegnoArredo is a guarantee of originality and it represents the best of Made in Italy, ensuring that companies work correctly. They have always been a recognized and distinguished counterpart and therefore I can guarantee an absolute institutional commitment from the government.” Snaidero then invited the Minister to attend the next edition of the Salone del Mobile, scheduled in Milan for April 14-19, 2015.
