Iranian carpets continue to reach global markets despite significant challenges, including sanctions, internal restrictions, and growing competition. According to Zahra Kamani, president of Iran’s National Carpet Center, exports have diversified beyond official customs channels, with some shipments moving through suitcase trade and intermediary nations. This resilience highlights the enduring appeal of Iranian handwoven carpets, even as India, China, and Egypt push to dominate the market.
Private Sector Driving the Industry Forward
Kamani credited Iran’s private sector for sustaining the industry. “Private sector associations have long been the standard-bearers of Iranian carpets,” she stated, emphasizing that personal investments have kept the sector alive. She called for a unified platform to bring together designers, dyers, weavers, restorers, and traders, fostering collaboration and enhancing visibility across the supply chain.
Innovation and Technology: A Necessary Shift
While tradition remains central to Iranian carpets, Kamani stressed the need for modernization to stay competitive. She warned that competitors are leveraging advanced methods to outpace Iran, urging the industry to embrace artificial intelligence, modern marketing, and e-commerce while safeguarding authenticity. “I advocate for technological advancement with caution, ensuring our heritage remains intact,” she said.
Global Competition and Domestic Challenges
Iran faces stiff competition from India, China, and Egypt, which have modernized their production processes. Meanwhile, Afghanistan and Pakistan have surpassed Iran in carpet finishing and restoration, capitalizing on Iran’s regulatory and economic challenges. Kamani pointed to currency repatriation laws, high tariffs on raw materials, and limited access to financial tools as major domestic hurdles restricting Iranian exporters.
Turkey has also capitalized on Iran’s challenges, attracting Iranian restorers to boost its own industry. Kamani called for export incentives and policy reforms to mitigate these disadvantages and create a level playing field.
Iranian Carpets Maintain Global Prestige
Despite obstacles, Iranian carpets remain highly sought after worldwide. “Museums still seek even a single Iranian rug,” Kamani noted, attributing their longevity to high-quality raw materials and skilled craftsmanship.
Iranian wool, sourced from Kermanshah, Sirjan, and Sistan, is renowned for its durability, yet India has begun importing it to enhance its own carpets.
Iranian plant-based dyes, made from natural pastures and deserts, produce rich colors that last centuries.
Kamani emphasized that Iranian carpets are more than luxury items—they are works of art with an unrivaled global reputation. However, she urged industry leaders to expand beyond traditional buyers and attract younger generations through modern marketing strategies.
A Future Built on Tradition and Innovation
While Iran’s carpet industry faces fierce competition and structural challenges, its global brand remains unmatched. By integrating innovation with tradition, Kamani believes Iran can reclaim its position as the world’s leading carpet exporter while preserving its centuries-old legacy.
