The Italian Trade Agency (ITA) in Singapore proudly announces its key role at FIND – Design Fair Asia 2024, where it will spearhead the showcase of Italy’s finest furniture design, an event that forms a cornerstone of the Singapore Design Week. Jointly orchestrated by dmg events and Fiera Milano, FIND epitomises excellence in design discourse and commercial synergy, providing a global stage for the best in design.
This year at FIND, the ITA, in collaboration with the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, will be organising a distinguished Italian Pavilion – featuring 25 of Italy’s preeminent design and furniture enterprises – which serves as a platform for them to present their cutting-edge creations, highlighting the superior materials, sustainable methodologies, and avant-garde techniques. Visitors will have the privilege to explore an extensive array of products, each exemplifying the sophisticated fusion of heritage and innovation that elevates Italian furniture.
In addition to the Italian Pavilion, a whole host of other Italian companies will be showcasing their designs across the broader exhibition, bringing the total number of participating companies from Italy to more than 40, further underscoring the importance of the Italian presence at FIND.
A dedicated lounge within the Italian Pavilion will also serve as an elegant setting for B2B meetings, fostering impactful partnerships between Italian and Singaporean companies and also those from the region.
A Fusion of Creative Legacies: Italian Design Day Meets Singapore Design Week
Typically celebrated globally in March, Italian Design Day in Singapore will take place on 30 September – 1 October 2024, to coincide with Singapore Design Week, as in the past two editions. This timing will allow the organisation to better leverage the opportunities presented by the event, culminating all design-related initiatives in a grand celebration of design. On this occasion, renowned architect Michele De Lucchi will lead talks and workshops, offering exclusive insights into his innovative design philosophy and the future of architecture, in collaboration with the Embassy of Italy.
A Thriving Market for Italian Furniture in Singapore and beyond
Italy’s involvement in FIND 2024 reflects the nation’s growing influence in the global furniture market with exports having surged in recent years, making Italy the 4th largest furniture exporter worldwide, reaching 14.6 billion euros in 2023. Notably, Italy has cemented its position as the leading European Union exporter of furniture to Singapore, commanding a 32.8% market share and generating 68.5 million euros in 2023 — a remarkable 14.4% growth from the previous year.
The Singapore furniture market is rapidly growing, with revenue projected to reach US$1.64 billion in 2024. With a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 2.66% from 2024 to 2029, the market is evolving in response to shifting consumer preferences, emerging trends, and the unique dynamics of Singapore’s economy. The demand for modern, minimalist designs, sustainable furniture options, and multifunctional solutions reflects the sophistication of Singapore consumers and their appreciation for quality.
Voices of Leadership
Mr. Dante Brandi, Ambassador of Italy to Singapore, highlighted Italy’s pivotal role in advancing design dialogue in Southeast Asia: “Italy has firmly positioned itself as a global hub for design, with iconic events like Milan Design Week becoming essential platforms for industry visibility. At FIND – Design Fair Asia, we are not only presenting the excellence of Italian design but also contributing to Singapore’s rise as a key connectivity hub in Southeast Asia. This collaboration enhances the bridge between East and West, establishing Singapore as a leading benchmark for exhibitions that promote meaningful discussions on design and creativity.”
Mr. Giorgio Calveri, Trade Commissioner for Singapore and the Philippines, Italian Trade Agency, added: “Italian design has found a thriving and receptive market in Singapore, known for its pioneering approach to architecture and urbanism. The country’s multicultural environment and its status as a regional hub provide a unique platform to showcase the versatility and elegance of Italian design to the sophisticated consumers of the wider Asian market. Bringing the presence of more than 40 Italian companies at FIND – Design Fair Asia 2024 underlines the importance of Singapore for Italian designers and manufacturers looking to expand their influence in the region, where Made in Italy is celebrated for its blend of tradition and modernity.”
