LAHORE – Chairman of the Carpet Training Institute (CTI) Ijaz-ur-Rehman has stated that Pakistan’s handmade carpet industry must adopt a comprehensive and well-coordinated strategy in line with evolving global trends to sustain its position in the international market. He cautioned that the industry is currently facing serious survival challenges, urging all stakeholders to come together and calling upon the government to extend wholehearted support.
Addressing a delegation of manufacturers and exporters at his office, Ijaz-ur-Rehman emphasized the urgent need to focus on the development of innovative designs. He stressed that new collections should be introduced in accordance with the preferences of European and American markets to enhance global competitiveness. He also highlighted the importance of promoting environmentally sustainable practices, including the increased use of natural and eco-friendly dyes.
He further suggested that each handmade carpet should be marketed with its unique story to create an emotional connection with buyers, thereby adding value to the product. Obtaining internationally recognized quality certifications, he said, is essential to strengthening the confidence and trust of foreign customers.
Underscoring the importance of digital presence, he advised industry players to establish official websites and e-commerce platforms while building a strong brand presence across social media channels. He also recommended registering as verified suppliers on global B2B platforms such as Alibaba, utilizing professional photography and video content to effectively showcase products, and investing in online advertising and search engine optimization (SEO) to expand market reach.
Ijaz-ur-Rehman noted that with effective government policies and the adoption of modern business strategies by manufacturers and exporters, the handmade carpet industry can once again emerge as a significant contributor to the national economy. He emphasized that the sector is not only a major source of foreign exchange earnings but also supports the livelihoods of millions of families in rural areas, making immediate and practical measures essential for its revival and protection.
