T

he Center for International Forestry Research (CIFOR) has launched the Jepara furniture map in English in order to promote the area’s industry to the public, especially foreign tourists.

CIFOR researcher Ramadhani Achdiawan said that the map, which was launched over the weekend, showed the locations of nine furniture hubs in Jepara, with explanations on the types of products made from old teak.

“The map is intended mainly for foreign tourists and will be distributed not only in Jepara but also in other regions,” Ramadhani said, adding that CIFOR had been involved in training craftsmen in Jepara since 2008. The map could also be assessed at javamebel.com, he said.

Meanwhile, Achmad Zainudin, a craftsman specializing in children’s furniture, said the new map could prove to have benefits and drawbacks for the industry.

“I’m concerned about the possibility that with the launch of the map, foreign buyers will be able to directly negotiate with local producers, who, without thinking about their capacity, may accept any large orders. In the end, they will not be consistent in the quality and this will surely ruin the market,” Achmad said.

Therefore, he suggested that representatives of the Jepara city administration, the Association of the Jepara Wood Producers and CIFOR accompany craftsmen when they negotiate with buyers.