Imported Kuwaiti sofas draw crowds at Safwan auction market

BASRA — At the Safwan auction market near the Kuwaiti border, demand is rising for secondhand sofas imported from Kuwait, with some fetching as much as 3 million Iraqi dinars (about $2,125), far exceeding the prices of locally made furniture.

Auctioneers and traders say the popularity of Kuwaiti goods stems from the quality of materials, particularly the use of “Baghli” brand foam, a furnishing staple in Kuwait known for its durability.

“I have been in this profession for 20 years, and Kuwaiti sofas are considered among the finest types of furniture,” said showroom owner Mohammed Ghanem. “They are distinguished by luxurious fabric and fine craftsmanship. That’s why we only deal with original Kuwaiti goods.”

Ghanem said the market offers delivery across Iraq, including to Mosul and Anbar, and that prices range from 400,000 to 4 million dinars ($283 to $2,834), depending on quality and design.

While Iraqi-made furniture is also available, typically priced between 300,000 and 600,000 dinars ($212 to $425), traders say it does not match the quality or longevity of Kuwaiti imports.

Importer Nasser Hassan said the market specializes in high-end Kuwaiti and Egyptian furniture. “All the goods we display are of high quality and royal designs, at prices suitable for everyone,” he said. “There are items for 500,000 dinars, others at 1 million, and some up to 3 million. Customers from limited income to the well-off can find what suits them.”

He added that the Safwan market has become a destination for buyers from across Iraq, particularly those seeking long-lasting sofas at competitive prices.

“Iraqi sofas often lose quality after a month or two, while Kuwaiti furniture maintains its condition even when secondhand,” Hassan said.