Improving the Markets for Iranian Rugs

Dr. Mirza Shahid Irshad (Pakistan)

Opening permanent exhibition centers for Iranian rugs in each of the buyer countries could play an effective role in expanding Iranian rug exports over the long term. Such exhibitions should be established in the major centers and capitals of the buyer countries, and should be open to the public, free of charge if possible or at minimal cost.

The presence of beautifully designed Iranian rugs, displayed with their price tags, would undoubtedly open the way for customers around the world and lead to growth in the trade of Iranian rugs in the rug market.

Such centers should also be able to take orders and supply Iranian rugs to customers at the lowest possible prices, and arrange for the packing and shipping of these goods from Iran to the specified destinations. Spreading and expanding information about Iranian rugs through advertising throughout the world is essential.

Imitations of Iranian rugs bearing Iranian labels have caused the rug market to collapse in many places. In most cases, buyers prefer to purchase rugs carrying an Iranian label, and many people in far corners of the world have produced passable imitations of Iranian rugs and, by attaching a "Made in Iran" label, have brought about the collapse of the market. They have also been very successful in selling such imitations, to the point that, by pricing the imitation rugs below the originals, they have enabled imitations of Iranian rugs to find their way into the international market.

Some of these imitations are made so well that even for experienced traders, producers, or customers, distinguishing them from authentic Iranian rugs is difficult.

International prices for Iranian handwoven rugs are very high, so much so that most buyers and rug enthusiasts, despite their strong interest, are unable to purchase them. It is suggested that prices be brought under control and lowered to a level at which all potential buyers can make a purchase.

In our view, this approach would be very cost-effective if domestic markets were expanded, and, if prices were controlled, it would lead to the growth of the international market for Iranian rugs. Given the uniformity of Iranian rug designs and the similarity of many designs to one another, there is a felt need for greater variety in Iranian rug designs. The number of fine Iranian rugs with relatively original designs in international markets is very small. Greater variety in Iranian rug designs would lead to ever greater development of the rug industry in Iran.