IFFINA-Indonesia Furniture & Design Expo is one of the largest exhibitions showcasing superior products from Indonesia’s furniture and craft sector. In 2024, the exhibition will take place on September 14-17 at the Indonesia Convention Exhibition (ICE) with the theme “Sustainable by Design”. The theme is a response to environmental awareness which has become an important issue in the world of design. In addition, the exhibition provides an opportunity to showcase and discover designs inspired by Indonesian nature and culture brought to life by local Indonesian skilled craftsmen to the international market, including Italy. Through this event, Indonesian artisans can demonstrate their ability to produce products that blend tradition and innovation using natural and sustainable materials.
As one of the international exhibitions, IFFINA is a very important platform for Indonesian artisans to reach the global market. Each year, the exhibition attracts international buyers, distributors, and designers looking for quality products with a touch of local culture. Here, Indonesian furniture and craft products known for their unique designs, handcraftsmanship, and eco-friendly materials receive special attention. As such, IFFINA has become an important hub for local and international stakeholders looking to do business in the Indonesian furniture and craft industry.
Italy, known as the world center of design and fashion, has a great interest in high-quality furniture and handicrafts. Trade relations between Indonesia and Italy in the furniture sector are growing, especially with the interest in products made from natural materials such as rattan, bamboo and sustainable tropical wood. IFFINA plays an important role in opening up this opportunity by providing a platform for Indonesian craftsmen to showcase their work to Italian buyers.
In the context of furniture design, many Italian designers are inspired by traditional Indonesian materials and techniques. For example, the use of natural textiles and fibers such as mendong, rattan, and ikat fabrics from Sumba and so on often attract the attention of industry players in Italy. Indonesia’s design, which is rich in cultural elements, also matches the trend of contemporary furniture in Italy, which is increasingly moving towards eco-friendly concepts and handicrafts.
Indonesia Trade Promotion Center (ITPC) Milan acts as an important intermediary in strengthening trade relations between Indonesia and Italy. ITPC Milan is tasked with promoting Indonesia’s superior products, including furniture and handicrafts, to the Italian and European markets. By participating in exhibitions such as IFFINA, ITPC Milan can introduce Italian buyers and designers to various Indonesian products that have high potential to be adopted in the international market.
The collaboration between IFFINA and ITPC Milan further strengthens the reach of Indonesian products in Italy. Through participation in international exhibitions in Italy and other parts of Europe, ITPC Milan helps expand the market for Indonesian products, strengthens brands, and opens up opportunities for collaboration with designers and distributors in Italy. In addition to direct trade, there is great potential for collaboration between Italian designers and Indonesian craftsmen. Italy, known for its world-class interior design, can create synergies with Indonesian craftsmen who have expertise in manual production and the use of natural materials. These collaborative products can result in furniture and home decor that is not only visually unique, but also sustainable.
Thus, IFFINA provides a golden opportunity for Indonesian craftsmen to promote their work to the global market, including Italy. With the support of ITPC Milan, trade relations between the two countries in the furniture and handicraft sector are getting stronger. This not only supports Indonesia’s local economy, but also introduces the concept of sustainability and traditional design to a wider global market.
