Thai furniture brands have progressed their way into the global furniture and homeware market. The export growth was a high 33% year on year this January and is estimated to rise by another 4.5% this year. The market was valued at THB $44.5 billion in 2017, up from THB $42.2 billion in 2016 and the total export in 2016 was worth THB $34 billion compared to last year at THB $36 billion.

Thailand manufactures and exports 30% of its products to Japan, 20% to the United States, 10% to Europe and 8% to China.

Local property developers further estimate a growth of 11% in furniture demand due to the rising amount of residential and commercial projects totaling to THB $470 billion in 2018 and estimates selling prices to accelerate with a strong-performing Baht. Moreover, wages in Thailand still levels at a low THB $150 per working hour.

Much of the country’s leading furniture brands are inspired by Japanese minimalist design with a clean aesthetic and originality. The designs do not lose the exotic aspect of the country as the products are handcrafted to incorporate traditional techniques such as weaving and embroidery.

Compact and functional for small spaces, products have successfully made its way into the Asian market including Singapore and Hong Kong.

Thailand’s furniture exposition, TIF 2018, launched last week with over 120 furniture manufacturers and designers participating– spending THB $24 million to host the event.

Emerging brands included:

Atelier 2+ Cane Collection: Minimalist furniture made from cane plants cultivated from Thailand. Simple curves embrace the natural material which dominate their designs.

Mye: Simple and geometric products that use the array of materials ranging from wood to metal to fabric, all sourced from Thailand. Their design is a mix of modern and exotic.

Mahasamut: As one of the newest emerging brands in Thailand, Mahasamut creates clean and bold designs of chairs and sofas fitted for the comfortable home.

HawaiiThai: Specializes in sleek outdoor furniture using environmental friendly material. Their lounging chairs have been featured in branded resorts and hotels around the world.