TEHRAN -- Iran enjoys a universal reputation in carpet weaving. Persian carpet or Iranian rug is one of the main features of Iranian culture and art as well as one of the country’s leading exports.
Woven in various types by nomads and workshops, Persian handmade carpets are well-known for their longevity, lavish textures, strong colors and elaborate patterns.
They are characterized by natural dyes, traditional tribal patterns, as well as modern designs, but old techniques.
But Persian carpets are gathering dust as exports have declined over the years owing to U.S. sanctions and growing global competition.
Exports peaked at $2 billion in 1994 but the country exported carpets worth $50 million in the financial year ending in March 2022.