“I already knew it would happen”: Worker reacts to layoffs at SC furniture company amid US tariffs
BRUSQUE, SC – Layoffs are sweeping through Santa Catarina’s furniture industry following the imposition of tariffs by the United States, with Artefama Industries announcing a significant restructuring resulting in widespread job cuts.The news confirms fears voiced by industry leaders regarding the economic impact of the tariffs.
Approximately 60% of furniture produced on the North Santa Catarina Plateau is exported to the United States, making the sector notably vulnerable to trade barriers. Sindusmobil president, Pimentel, expressed “anguish and even a certain indignation” over the lack of diplomatic progress between Brazil and the US regarding the tariffs, stating, “This, in a way, causes us anguish and even a certain indignation.” He further emphasized the critical issue of predictability for businesses, noting that “Without a cash generation forecast in the future, companies end up taking drastic measures, which in this case is the layoffs.”
Artefama Industries confirmed the restructuring in a public statement, citing “recent changes in the international market” and a “significant reduction” in sales.The company stated the team reduction was “a challenging decision, but necessary to ensure that we continue to produce and maintain our presence in the municipality.” They added they are “reorganizing our processes and exploring new markets to gradually recover our productive capacity and thus generate jobs in the future again.”
Workers are already feeling the impact. One employee, speaking anonymously, stated, “I already knew it would happen,” reflecting a sense of inevitability given the escalating economic pressures.
Pimentel revealed that companies are resorting to layoffs “as a last appeal” to ensure their sustainability. The situation highlights the broader trend of job losses within the Brazilian wood and furniture industries following the tariff implementation, with SC leading the nation in related dismissals.Several municipalities in Santa Catarina are predicted to experience significant economic repercussions as a result.
