TEHRAN – Some 70 percent of the Siah-Chadors produced by nomadic artisans in South Khorasan’s Nehbandan county are now being exported to international markets.

On Monday, Hadi Shahverdi, the provincial tourism chief, announced that over the past three months, more than 2,000 square meters of these black tents, valued at 880 million tomans (some $14.700), were produced in Nehbandan, with the majority being exported.

The Siah-Chador, or “Black Tent,” is an integral part of nomadic life, traditionally woven by women from the hair of black goats. This material is not only readily available and lightweight but also waterproof, making it an ideal shelter for nomads throughout the year. Men are typically responsible for setting up these tents, which serve as homes during both summer and winter seasons.

The export markets for these distinctive tents include the Persian Gulf littoral states, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Turkmenistan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Iraq.

Shahverdi noted that Nehbandan’s artisans and craftsmen are active in more than 60 workshops dedicated to the production of Siah-Chadors, directly employing 240 people and providing indirect employment for an additional 70 individuals.

Annually, Nehbandan produces approximately 6,500 square meters of Siah-Chadors, valued at over 2 billion tomans, the official added.

That thriving industry not only preserves a vital cultural heritage but also significantly contributes to the local economy by creating job opportunities and promoting traditional crafts on an international stage, he explained.

AM