IVORY PEARL SELLS TIMBER DOORS IN INDIA

By P. VIJIAN

NEW DELHI, Feb 18 (Bernama) -- In a bid to tide over with the gloomy economic
climate, Malaysian timber door maker, Ivory Pearl Sdn Bhd, is checking out India
to diversify its export portfolio.

"Previously, we were more focused on the European market, but after the
economic downturn, we are diversifying our market base.

"If our move to the Indian market bears fruition, we will rebalance our
market portfolio to be more Asian-based rather than European-based," Ivory Pearl
Director Lee Kok Choy told Bernama.

The company is participating in the international-level Delhiwood Exhibition
in the Indian capital.

The British-Malaysia joint-venture company, which specialises in wooden
door and frame-making for export markets, has been exploring South Asia region
since 2007. Currently, it sells its doors and frames to Pakistan and Bangladesh.


"We've just started in Pakistan and doing about two containers (900 doors)
and the same in Bangladesh. We are trying to make a bigger presence in
the Indian market," said Lee.

The company rates India as a promising market for its timber products, as
Indians have been traditionally importing Malaysian timber, which could
withstand the harsh weather conditions in the sub-continent.

And, Ivory's premium products are ready to compete in the competitive market
and Lee is targeting about four containers (1,000 doors) for a start in the
Indian market.

" We are offering better than what is currently available in the market.
Although our products are a little expensive, we have been getting good
responses so far.

" The Indian economy is dong well and the people can afford more for their
house finishing," he added.

-- BERNAMA