KYIV, Ukraine — The Ukrainian Export Alliance announced it will “chart an ambitious path to new markets, strategic partnerships and sustainable innovation” to enhance the country’s furniture industry’s global presence in 2025.

While Europe currently accounts for 96% of Ukrainian furniture exports, the UEA is hatching plans to increase sales to North America, as well as the Middle East and Southeast Asia. Overall, the UEA hopes to increase furniture exports by 30 percent next year.

“We see immense opportunities in regions where eco-conscious lifestyles and functional design are becoming pivotal,” said Julia Lisovska, commercial director at Tivoli. “Our products align perfectly with these trends and are ready to deliver.”

To grow export markets, the UAE said it plans to forge partnerships with prominent distributors in Europe and North America. Agreements with Scandinavian and German retailers are underway to amplify Ukrainian craftsmanship’s presence in established markets.

Recent examples of Ukrainian efforts to build partnerships in the U.S. include:

• The Lviv Furniture Cluster (LFC) of Ukraine joined the National Kitchen & Bath Association’s Global Connect Strategic Alliance Partner program. The NKBA partner program intends to connect the global kitchen and bath community through information exchanges including sharing of market insights, product development ideas and go-to-market strategies designed to assist international companies explore business opportunities in the North American market.
• Ten members of the Lviv Furniture Cluster displayed for the first time at Boutique Design New York 2024. BDNY is a showcase for hotel design attracting designers, architects, hoteliers, developers, and purchasing agents from around the globe. 

“Our success is not just about overcoming challenges but about shaping the future,” said DUB CEO Olena Hrytsenko. “By staying true to our heritage of craftsmanship while embracing innovation, we’re elevating the ‘Made in Ukraine’ label to new heights.”

According to the UAE, Ukraine’s furniture industry “demonstrated remarkable resilience despite the adversities of a full-scale war.” As of late 2023, Ukraine’s furniture industry included 11,141 registered operators. Three-quarters of them are small and medium-sized enterprises, primarily individual entrepreneurs. The Volyn region leads with an average of 352 employees per enterprise.

Key challenges facing Ukrainian furniture manufacturers include:

• Supply chain disruptions and reliance on imported materials.
• Rising production costs and logistical hurdles.
• Limited government support and regulatory constraints.

Key opportunities include:

• Expansion into high-growth regions like the Middle East and Asia.
• Leveraging advanced manufacturing technologies to meet global standards.
• Capitalizing on Europe’s demand for sustainable and high-quality furniture.