The export data from the beginning of 2023 indicates a significant increase of 17% in Portuguese home and furniture exports compared to the previous year, pointing to a promising upward
trend for the industry in the coming years.
"Portugal Home Week" Promotes Portuguese Home Sector
Today, the largest national event promoting the Portuguese Home Sector, Portugal Home Week, is taking place at Alfândega do Porto. The event focuses on the theme of "Building the home of the future" and brings together industry professionals from around the world. Distinguished speakers from different countries and with diverse perspectives on the global market will participate, providing insights into the future of the Portuguese homeware market.
Foreign Interest in Portuguese Furniture Surges
Gualter Morgado, executive director of the Portuguese Association of Furniture and Related Industries (APIMA), highlighted in an interview with idealista that there has been a significant increase in foreign interest in Portuguese furniture. Portuguese furniture is gaining international recognition for its unique design, quality materials, solid construction, and excellent value for money.
Notably, the United States has emerged as a key importer of Portuguese homeware products, including furniture and textiles. It now surpasses Germany in terms of the number of home and furniture exports received from Portugal.
Craftsmanship, Quality Materials, and Sustainability
Portuguese homeware products are garnering attention globally due to the exceptional quality of materials and craftsmanship involved in their production. The industry's focus on sustainability is also contributing to its appeal. Many companies in the Portuguese homeware sector continue to incorporate traditional techniques, preserving the richness and uniqueness of the craft while meeting modern-day requirements.
Portugal's textile industry deserves special mention as it is considered the strongest in all of Europe. This sector constitutes a significant part of the Portuguese economy, accounting for approximately 15% of the country's total exports. Furthermore, 40% of Portuguese textiles are exported to the United States.
AQUINOS Group, the largest upholstery producer in Europe, is proudly Portuguese, further adding to the country's reputation for excellence in the homeware industry.
Positive Outlook for Portuguese Homeware Exports
The furniture sector, along with related markets such as textiles, ceramics, lighting, and upholstery, achieved approximately €2 billion in foreign sales from January to December 2022. This represents a 12% increase compared to the same period the previous year, and the upward trajectory is expected to continue throughout 2023, reflecting the growing demand for Portuguese homeware and furniture products in the global market. Photo by Palickap, Wikimedia commons.