Singapore Furniture Industries Council (SFIC) and the FederlegnoArredo (FLA), the Italian Federation of Wood, Cork, Furniture and Furnishing Industries, signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU). The MOU will promote better understanding, encourage knowledge-sharing and create further partnership opportunities between Singapore and Italian furniture players and designers.

Launched the Design DNA Programme at the official opening of IFFS/AFS 2009, a new initiative by the Singapore Furniture Industries Council that aims to boost overall design standards and capabilities of local furniture companies and designers. Supported by SPRING Singapore, the programme will be implemented over the next three years to assist the furniture industry in fully leveraging design as a key competitive advantage and driver for future growth.

Launched the Members Assistance Scheme (MAS), a financial package to assist its members weather the current economic uncertainties, for the third time. Under the MAS, up to S$1 million was handed out to eligible members to help lower business costs, strengthen business capabilities and explore new business opportunities to ensure sustainability, and facilitate their market diversification efforts.