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LAHORE, Nov 16 (APP): Chairperson of the Carpet Training Institute (CTI), Ejaz-ur-Rehman, has raised serious concerns over the challenges facing Pakistan’s hand-knotted carpet industry and the sharp decline in exports.
He stressed that government support, strategic policy measures, and a clear long-term plan are essential to revive the sector and restore its export potential.
Addressing a meeting with manufacturers and exporters on Sunday, Ejaz-ur-Rehman discussed the long-standing issues confronting the industry and proposed measures to promote exports. He emphasized the importance of a thorough understanding of the sector’s problems, stating that effective solutions cannot be found without first diagnosing the underlying issues.
He expressed particular concern over the decline of what was once a globally recognized industry with high export volumes. He urged industry stakeholders to work together on crafting a viable roadmap for the future, taking into account the current state of the market.
The CTI chairperson noted that while the carpet industry is growing rapidly in other countries and global market prospects are improving, Pakistan’s sector is facing several critical challenges. Chief among these, he said, is the lack of government support and a shortage of skilled labor, particularly in rural areas where most of the industry’s workforce is based.
He also highlighted the need for greater industry awareness of global trends, stressing that innovation in design is crucial for maintaining competitiveness. Modern buyers, particularly millennials and Generation Z, tend to prefer carpets with simpler designs, fewer colors, and cultural elements. To compete effectively in international markets, Pakistan’s carpet industry must focus on reducing production costs and scaling up manufacturing.
He stressed that the government intervention through policy support could help align the industry’s strategies with global trends, ultimately leading to an expansion of exports. He proposed that government action in areas such as tax exemptions, freight subsidies, and trade agreements could significantly boost the sector. Additionally, he called for the establishment of a Pakistan Carpet Export Promotion Body to further support the industry’s growth and development.