Chinese Furniture Exports Navigate Challenges, Seek New Opportunities in 2026

The Chinese furniture export sector is adapting to a new normal characterized by external pressures and internal transformation. While overall export value saw a slight decline in 2025, there are clear strategies for growth in 2026 . The focus is shifting from competing on price to competing on value. Domestically, consumer demand is pivoting towards products with functional and experiential value, such as electric sofas and smart beds, indicating a path for export product development . Internationally, companies are actively diversifying markets. Although North America remains significant, exports to Europe, Latin America, and Africa saw growth, with Vietnam showing a notable increase of 18.7% in 2025 . Crucially, cross-border e-commerce​ is becoming a major channel, accounting for 7.5% of furniture exports and offering a way to directly reach overseas consumers and build brand presence .