Iraq’s furniture and carpet market has experienced significant growth in imports from Iran and Turkiye, fueled by rising consumer demand and a growing interest in home aesthetics across major cities. As household purchasing power improves, imported products have become increasingly attractive to Iraqi buyers seeking quality and style.
According to preliminary data from the Iraqi Ministry of Trade, the country imported over 400,000 pieces of carpets and furniture from Iran and Turkiye in 2023, valued at more than $180 million — representing a 30% increase compared to 2022.
Local Production in Decline
Despite the booming market, industry experts warn that Iraq’s domestic furniture and carpet production has nearly vanished in provinces such as Hilla, Najaf, and al-Sulaymaniyah, once known for their craftsmanship.
Mohammed Al-Jubouri, a member of the Iraqi Chambers of Commerce, told Shafaq News that Iraq has become one of the largest markets for carpets and furniture in the Middle East, largely dominated by Iranian and Turkish products.
“Iran holds about 60% of Iraq’s carpet market, while Turkiye accounts for roughly 35%. The rest comes from China and Southeast Asia,” Al-Jubouri explained.
He added that Iranian carpets, especially handmade varieties from Kashan, Tabriz, and Qom, continue to enjoy a long-standing reputation for luxury and artistry, maintaining their status as some of the world’s most prestigious products.
Iranian Carpets: Tradition and Luxury
In Baghdad’s historic markets, Iranian carpets remain symbols of prestige and artistry. Hussein Al-Rubaie, a carpet and furniture trader in Baghdad, described Kashan carpets as “the most expensive and sought-after” among high-income clients.
Handmade carpets are sold for $400 to $700 per square meter, with full-sized pieces reaching up to $10,000, depending on materials, thread quality, and knot density.
“Owners of luxury homes and hotels often purchase these carpets as both aesthetic and financial investments,” Al-Rubaie noted. He added that religious seasons and social occasions — particularly in Najaf and Karbala — drive additional demand for carpets featuring Islamic motifs and calligraphy.
Turkish Competition and Modern Appeal
While Iran dominates the high-end segment, Turkish carpets and furniture continue to expand their presence in Iraq, appealing to younger buyers with modern designs and affordable pricing.
Prominent brands such as Hereke, Ipek, and Merinos offer a blend of industrial precision and aesthetic versatility, with prices ranging from $100 to $500 per piece, according to trader Khalid, who operates in Baghdad.
“Hereke is the most expensive Turkish brand and the closest competitor to Iranian handmade carpets,” Khalid said. “Turkish products dominate markets in Erbil, al-Sulaymaniyah, and Duhok due to proximity and trade ties with the Kurdistan Region, while southern Iraq prefers Iranian goods imported through Diyala, Wasit, and Maysan.”
Shifting Consumer Preferences
In Kirkuk, carpet trader Ali Ahmed observed that Iraqi consumers have become more discerning, focusing on quality and craftsmanship rather than price alone.
“Turkish carpets offer a modern look and good quality at lower prices, but when a premium Iranian handmade carpet is available, it always wins the competition,” Ahmed said.
A Market of Opportunity and Challenge
While imports from Iran and Turkiye continue to satisfy Iraq’s growing demand for high-quality home furnishings, the decline of domestic production remains a concern. Without investment in local craftsmanship and manufacturing, experts warn that Iraq could become permanently dependent on imports, losing a part of its cultural and economic identity tied to traditional carpet weaving and furniture making.
