Chinese bullish despite challenges
By Furniture Today Staff -- Furniture Today, October 3, 2005
It's been about nine months since the U.S. government imposed final duties on Chinese manufacturers of wood bedroom furniture. In late August, Furniture/Today Associate Editor Tom Russell traveled to China to survey the furniture industry and the business climate there in light of those duties. Based on interviews with a half dozen manufacturers, it's clear that most companies are bullish about China's future and their ability to serve the U.S. market.
Still, China faces hurdles. Many manufacturers are concerned about labor shortages and competition from other industries for good workers. They also voice concerns about ongoing energy shortages, rising fuel costs and uncertainties associated with the recent currency revaluation.
Others are keeping a close eye on the upcoming administrative review of antidumping duties and what that could mean for their business.
This two-part special report, with the second part to appear in the Sept. 26 issue, addresses those and other issues and offers profiles and growth strategies of the companies Russell visited.
