TEHRAN - Iran Chamber of Commerce, Industries, Mines and Agriculture is stepping up efforts to promote Persian handicrafts by fostering international partnerships and implementing policy reforms.

Through collaboration with the Ministry of Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts and leveraging joint chambers with foreign nations, the initiative seeks to expand market access, simplify export regulations, and support the livelihoods of artisans, said Morteza Miri, who presides over the chamber’s commission for carpet, art, and handicrafts.

Speaking on the sidelines of the 37th National Handicrafts Exhibition on Wednesday, he highlighted the growing cooperation between the Chamber and the ministry’s handicrafts department.

He also emphasized the importance of strengthening global partnerships to access new markets and implementing reforms to support artisans' economic rights.

“Key areas of focus include addressing regulatory barriers, such as foreign exchange requirements for exporters, and working with government bodies like the Ministry of Industry and Foreign Affairs to resolve challenges in the sector.”

Miri underlined the vital role of international exhibitions in showcasing Iranian craftsmanship and facilitating networking opportunities. He noted a significant interest in Iranian handicrafts, particularly from Persian Gulf nations and Latin America, and stressed the need for better coordination across various Iranian provinces to capitalize on this demand.

Moreover, he underlined efforts to align with international standards are underway, including new training programs for artisans in specialized crafts such as Baloochi needlework. These initiatives aim to produce culturally authentic products that meet global market expectations.

Miri emphasized that adopting high standards in presentation and packaging will be critical for enhancing the global competitiveness of Iranian handicrafts.

By combining targeted reforms, international collaboration, and strategic market engagement, the Iran Chamber of Commerce aims to elevate the country's handicrafts sector as a key player on the world stage, he said.

Iran’s handicraft industry experienced a remarkable 53% increase in exports during the first quarter of the current Persian year (started on March 20), compared to the same period last year.

According to available data, some 26 tons of handicrafts, valued at $74.5 million, were exported in the three months, compared to about 16 tons worth $48.6 million in the same period last year.

Currently, a selection of 13 cities and three villages in Iran have been registered by the World Council of Handicrafts as “world cities of handicrafts”.

AM