The South African furniture industry has never lacked ideas, ambition or resilience. What often determines success, however, is the ability to turn strategy into action. Over the past few months, we have seen encouraging progress across several key initiatives that are moving beyond discussion and into implementation. From tackling illicit trade and improving product compliance, to expanding skills development, strengthening market access and creating new digital opportunities for manufacturers, the focus is increasingly on practical interventions that can deliver measurable benefits to the industry.
One of SAFI’s most important priorities remains creating a fairer and more competitive operating environment for local manufacturers. Significant work is underway through engagements with the Localisation Support Fund, SARS, ITAC and the Manufacturing Circle to address the growing impact of illicit and undervalued imports. Research is being commissioned to develop tools that can better identify unfair trade practices and support enforcement efforts. At the same time, discussions are progressing around a broader industry-wide awareness campaign that highlights the impact of illicit trade on jobs, investment and local manufacturing.
Progress is also being made on product standards and compliance. The forthcoming implementation of the Pre-export Verification of Conformity (PVoC) programme will introduce additional quality assurance measures for selected imported furniture products before they reach South African shores. While details continue to be refined, the initiative has the potential to support fair competition and improve confidence in product quality and safety.
Developing industry skills remains fundamental to our long-term success. SAFI continues to work closely with manufacturers, training providers and TVET colleges to support workplace-based learning, occupational qualifications, accreditation readiness and learner development. Building a pipeline of skilled employees is essential if South African manufacturers are to remain competitive in an increasingly demanding marketplace.
As we continue investing in programmes and services that support the growth and competitiveness of our members, it is equally important that manufacturers engage with the resources already available through the recently revamped SAFI website. The platform offers a growing suite of practical tools, including the Employment Portal, which connects employers with potential employees across the furniture sector; the Export Market Finder, designed to help businesses identify and explore international market opportunities; and the Tender Portal, which provides access to relevant procurement opportunities. Members can also access industry news, funding information, training opportunities and compliance resources.
In the coming months, SAFI will also begin piloting the National Furniture Catalogue, a new online platform developed to showcase South African furniture manufacturers and their products to buyers. An initial group of manufacturers will participate in the pilot phase before the catalogue is rolled out more broadly to the industry.
Accurate member information remains essential to ensuring that manufacturers receive the full benefit of SAFI’s services and opportunities. We are currently working with the Bargaining Councils to improve and update industry records and will continue engaging with stakeholders to strengthen participation and awareness. I encourage members to ensure that their company details are up to date by contacting the SAFI team and to make regular use of the website’s resources as we continue expanding the value available through the platform.
The common thread running through all these initiatives is action. By working together and actively engaging with the opportunities available, we can build a stronger, more competitive and more sustainable furniture manufacturing industry for the future.
Greg Boulle
Chief Executive Officer
South African Furniture Initiative (SAFI)
