IDC CEO, Trevor Kruse, and IDC trade mission consultant, Enrico Cleva, and IDC board member, Carly Norris, pictured with fellow attendees at MIFF 2026.
Throughout March, three groups of IDC members took part in trade missions to the Malaysian International Furniture Fair (MIFF) in Kuala Lumpur, the Indonesia International Furniture Expo (IFEX) in BSD City, and IDC’s Trade Mission to Belgium in Brussels.
At MIFF, members engaged with one of the industry’s most established global platforms, where exhibitors and buyers from around the world come together to exchange ideas and explore new business opportunities. Known for its strong emphasis on professionalism and innovation, MIFF provided attendees with access to a wide range of products and emerging trends, along with meaningful opportunities to build international relationships.
As part of the program, three IDC delegates participated in a panel discussion titled Design and Innovation in Western Canada, moderated by IDC CEO Trevor Kruse, offering an opportunity to share regional perspectives and contribute to international dialogue.
Left to right: IDC CEO, Trevor Kruse, and IDC members, Christine Boultbee, Carly Norris, and Teneille Carter at IDC’s panel at MIFF 2026.
IDC member, Christine Boultbee, was thrilled to attend the trade mission.
“What an experience! The Malay people were extremely hospitable and polite, and the conference was well organized and exciting,” she says. “Some of the Canadian delegates got to speak on a panel about design and innovation in western Canada, and it was great to hear what the other designers were seeing in the industry.”
In Jakarta, members attended IFEX, a leading showcase of Indonesia’s dynamic furniture and craft sector. IFEX highlighted the depth of local manufacturing and design, offering attendees insight into materials, techniques, and culturally rooted approaches to production. As a key meeting point between Indonesian makers and global buyers, the fair created space for discovery, inspiration, and potential collaboration.
From left to right: IDC member, Yvonne Bulk, IDC trade mission consultant, Sara Cleva, and IDC member Ayla Calverly.
IDC member, Ayla Calverley, noted that attending IFEX was inspiring and impressive.
“What a country of design talent paired with a tradition of craftsmanship and pride in their culture,” she says. “Giving Canadian interior designers direct access to global suppliers and trade relationships opens our eyes to global design, products, trends and competitiveness while growing the reputation of Canadian interior design globally.”
IDC also hosted a trade mission to Belgium in collaboration with IDC-Home and Flanders Investment and Trade. This experience offered members a curated look into Belgian design, including contemporary and traditional approaches to furniture manufacturing, as well as guided architectural tours. IDC members had the unique opportunity to experience design within its cultural context, supporting professional growth through exposure to international perspectives, industry connections, and firsthand learning.
IDC trade missions are funded by international trade agencies and often sponsored in part by manufacturers and suppliers in host countries. In most cases, all or most of the expenses are covered for participating IDC members or the association.
For any inquiries, please contact: communications@idcanada.org.
