Pakistan’s Hand-Knotted Carpet Industry Faces Serious Challenges, Export Decline Alarms Stakeholders

By Muhammad Shahzad — Lahore, Pakistan

LAHORE — Pakistan’s hand-knotted carpet industry, once a major contributor to the country’s export earnings, is facing severe difficulties due to a lack of government support, shortage of skilled workers, and failure to keep pace with global market trends, industry leaders warned.

Chairperson of the Carpet Training Institute (CTI), Ejaz ur Rehman, said the sector’s challenges have become “alarming,” leading to a sharp drop in exports. Speaking at a meeting of manufacturers and exporters, he stressed that Pakistan needs a clear long-term strategy to revive the industry.

Rehman said that while global demand for hand-knotted carpets is growing and competing countries are expanding their market share, Pakistan’s industry is struggling. He highlighted shortages of trained labor, especially in rural areas, as a major obstacle.

He added that international buyers — particularly younger consumers such as Generation Z and millennials — now prefer simpler designs, fewer colors, and cultural patterns. To remain competitive, he said Pakistan must adopt modern design trends, reduce production costs, and expand large-scale manufacturing.

Rehman urged the government to provide tax exemptions, reduce duties, offer freight subsidies, and support trade agreements. He also called for the creation of a Pakistan Carpet Export Promotion Body to help boost international sales.

He said that with proper government assistance and effective policy measures, Pakistan could restore its position in the global carpet market and significantly increase exports.