Hand-woven carpet exports from Iran have fetched US$ 400 million during March 20, 2012-February 18, 2013, Head of Iran's National Carpet Center Mohammad Baqer Alikhani has said.
During the 11-month period, Iranian carpets were shipped to around 70 countries across the globe. While Asian countries accounted for around 45 percent of total carpet exports, the European nations bought 43 percent of them, and the rest were imported by other countries, FARS News Agency reported quoting Mr. Alikhani.
Last calendar year, Iran exported around US$ 560 million worth of hand-woven carpets to 50 countries, including Japan, Italy and Germany.
Traditionally the US, China, EU, Brazil, Central and South Africa and several neighbouring countries are the major export destinations for Iran-made Persian carpets, which are known for their intricate design and skilful making.
Identified as one of the most illustrious expressions of the Persian culture, the carpet-weaving art finds its root in ancient Persia.
Over 1.2 million weavers in Iran engage in carpet weaving and produce around five million square meters of carpets each year, 80 percent of which are exported.
