Call for Comprehensive Strategy to Revive Pakistan’s Handmade Carpet Industry

By Muhammad Shahzad | Lahore, Pakistan
LAHORE: Chairman of the Carpet Training Institute (CTI), Ijaz-ur-Rehman, has called for the adoption of a comprehensive and well-coordinated strategy to strengthen Pakistan’s handmade carpet industry in line with evolving global market trends.
Addressing a delegation of manufacturers and exporters at his office, he warned that the sector is currently facing serious survival challenges and urged all stakeholders to unite. He also called upon the government to extend full support to safeguard and revive the industry.
Ijaz-ur-Rehman emphasized the urgent need to develop innovative designs tailored to the preferences of European and American markets. Introducing new collections aligned with international consumer demand, he said, is essential to enhancing global competitiveness. He further highlighted the growing importance of environmentally sustainable production practices, including the increased use of natural and eco-friendly dyes.
He suggested that each handmade carpet should be marketed with its own unique story to build an emotional connection with buyers and increase product value. Securing internationally recognized quality certifications, he added, would help strengthen the confidence and trust of foreign customers.
Stressing the importance of digital transformation, the CTI chairman advised manufacturers and exporters to establish official websites and e-commerce platforms, while building a strong brand presence on social media. He also recommended registering as verified suppliers on global B2B platforms such as Alibaba, utilizing professional photography and video content to showcase products effectively, and investing in online advertising and search engine optimization (SEO) to expand market reach.
Ijaz-ur-Rehman noted that with supportive government policies and the adoption of modern business strategies, Pakistan’s handmade carpet industry can once again emerge as a key contributor to the national economy. He underscored that the sector not only earns valuable foreign exchange but also sustains the livelihoods of millions of families, particularly in rural areas, making immediate and practical revival measures imperative.