Furniture Policy & Trade: Kenya’s furniture makers warn a surprise Finance Act tax on imported wood-based boards could raise prices and threaten jobs, arguing the change lacked public input. Retail & Supply Chain: Reuters reports U.S. retailers are frontloading China orders by 4–6 weeks ahead of expected tariff hikes, keeping inventory flowing for holiday demand. Manufacturing Signals: China’s factory activity returned to expansion in June, with AI-driven chip and computer demand helping offset other economic weakness. Design & Hospitality Tech: An Israeli AI platform is entering pilots to speed up hotel mock-up room planning, aiming to cut months of physical sample revisions and costs. Home & Storage Trends: Rentomojo says wardrobe rentals are rising across major Indian metros as tenants move more often and avoid bulky ownership costs. Furniture in the Community: Acts 4 Ministry, which distributes clothing, housewares and furniture, is participating in Travelers’ Birdies for Charity to fund its “Sleep Well” bed program. Local Furniture-Adjacent News: A Malaysia TVET push in Muar links youth retention to the region’s furniture manufacturing base and skills training.