Iran’s handicraft exports for the current Iranian calendar year that started on March 21, 2013 is estimated to cross one billion USD, Deputy Head of Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts Organization (CHTHO) Yahya Rahmati said.
There is a wide range of items that Iranian handicraft industry offers, including traditional ornaments and jewellery, which constitute a major part of country’s handicraft exports. However, Persian Carpet with its exclusive designs, skilful making and premium quality remains the most popular of all items, and is highly sought after, the official said.
As announced by the Deputy of Iran's National Carpet Center Mojtaba Feizollahi, the country, recognized as a leading exporter of hand-woven carpets, exported over US$ 560 million worth of Persian hand-woven carpets, during last fiscal year, which concluded on March 20.
Iran ships carpets to over 100 countries and hand-woven carpets to over 50 countries including Japan, Germany and Italy.
Finding it roots in ancient Persia, carpet weaving is recognized as one of the most eminent expression of Persian art and culture.
Around 1.2 million weavers in Iran each year produce around five million square metres of carpets to cater to domestic and international market. 80 percent of the carpets produced in Iran are shipped to foreign countries.
