The furniture industry in Ghana has seen better days. Once thriving with beloved local brands like Kpogas, Kingdom Furniture, and Kings Furniture, the landscape has drastically shifted in recent years. The influx of exotic foreign furniture has not only changed consumer preferences but has also led to significant challenges for locally manufactured products. This article explores the reasons behind this trend, the statistics surrounding imported furniture, existing regulations, and potential measures to revitalize Ghana’s furniture industry.
One of the primary reasons for the decline of the local furniture industry is the cost disparity between locally manufactured and imported furniture. Imports are often available at a fraction of the price of their local counterparts.
Many foreign furniture companies produce goods in bulk, allowing them to reduce manufacturing costs and pass these savings on to consumers. Countries that export furniture to Ghana often have lower labour costs, allowing them to sell products at competitive prices. Also, some foreign governments subsidize their furniture industries, making their products even cheaper on the global market.
In addition to their lower prices, imported furniture often presents a strong aesthetic appeal. Foreign manufacturers offer a wide variety of designs, catering to contemporary trends that resonate with consumers. Local options often lack these modern designs, appearing outdated.
Many consumers perceive imported furniture as higher quality due to better finishes and materials, fostering a sense of trust in foreign brands. Exotic furniture can include innovative features and styles that appeal more to today’s consumers looking for both functionality and style.
The impact of imported furniture on Ghana’s local market is evident in official statistics. Recent reports indicate a staggering rise in the import of furniture to Ghana, with estimates suggesting over 200,000 containers of furniture were imported in the last year alone. This significant influx has drowned out local brands, weakening their market position dramatically.
The competition is not just limited to furniture; it reflects a larger trend of local manufacturers struggling to survive against cheaper imports across various sectors, with showrooms filled with imported furniture in recent times. This dilemma poses critical questions about the future of Ghana’s manufacturing capabilities.
Currently, Ghana’s furniture industry faces minimal regulatory barriers regarding imported items. Although there are some quality checks in place, the regulations lack strict enforcement. While there are tariffs on imported furniture, they are often inadequate to significantly deter imports. Inconsistencies in quality control can result in poorly manufactured products entering the market without proper scrutiny. Many stakeholders within Ghana’s local furniture industry have called for revisiting these regulations to create a more level playing field.
Efforts to get some local manufacturing brands to speak with proved futile, however, some entrepreneurs in the furniture business shared their concerns about the issue at hand.
Mr. Quarshie who owns a furniture shop at Aboboki in Accra, lamented the toll the influx of foreign furniture in the country has taken on him in recent times. According to him, businesses are not coming as usual except for petty requests like stools for the kitchen and replacements of broken furniture.
He stressed the need to get government support through skill training initiatives to enable them to become abreast with international standards. He was hopeful that the leadership of trade unions would facilitate the move.
“There is nothing we cannot do to match this imported furniture with lavish designs, we can do better. We only need hands-on training and support from the government on the latest international standards and designs, we will be better off. If local manufacturers can produce even better quality products with much stylish designs, I am sure the industry will move forward and Ghanaians will get them at a moderate rate compared to paying duties and levies for imported ones” He stressed.
As the local furniture industry grapples with these challenges, several measures can be taken to rejuvenate it. Local manufacturers must invest in modern designs and innovative technologies. Collaborating with designers can help create aesthetically pleasing products that appeal to today’s consumers.
Exploring more efficient production methods can help reduce manufacturing costs, making local furniture more competitive. This could involve using locally sourced materials to lower expenses and support local economies.
Creating awareness about the benefits of locally manufactured furniture can shift consumer perceptions. Highlighting the craftsmanship and cultural significance of local products can foster a sense of national pride and encourage consumers to support local businesses.
Strengthening regulations surrounding imported furniture could also assist local manufacturers. Higher tariffs or stricter quality standards for imports may provide local products with a better chance in the market.
The decline of Ghana’s locally manufactured furniture industry is a multifaceted issue driven by economic factors, design shortcomings, and competitive pressures from abroad. To reclaim its former glory, the local industry must embrace innovation, enhance its offerings, and work with regulatory bodies to level the playing field.
