Singapore furniture industry in for a productivity boost

The government is eyeing a 20% increase in worker value-added and wider global reach.

By 2015, Singapore is looking to expand the furniture industry's worldwide market share to 1.5%, which as of 2011 had a total world trade value of roughly $105 billion.

S$17 million has been earmarked to reach these productivity and expansion goals, said Lim Hng Kiang, Minister for Trade and Industry.

"Raising our productivity levels is another essential step towards driving growth
in our local furniture industry," he said, adding that 1,300 workers are scheduled to undergo a rigorous vocational training and certification program.

Government agencies such as International Enterprise Singapore will also extend more accommodating financial schemes for local furniture companies looking to expand to abroad, he added.