Are hand-knotted carpets and rugs still made in Iran?

 Yes, hand-knotted carpets and rugs are still made in Iran, but the legendary industry is currently facing an unprecedented economic crisis. [1]

While millions of local weavers continue to practice this centuries-old art form, macroeconomic pressures have drastically altered how these textiles are produced, sold, and exported. [1, 2, 3, 4]

The Current State of the Industry

• Severe Export Collapse: Due to strict international sanctions, banking restrictions, and the loss of major Western markets like the United States, official Iranian handwoven carpet exports plummeted from over $2 billion annually in the 1990s to less than $40 million. [1, 2]
• Shift to Home Weaving: Many historic, large-scale commercial workshops in weaving hubs like Tabriz have closed down. Production has largely shifted to individual weavers working from home or within small rural tribal settings. [1, 2]
• Foreign Competition: Countries like India, Turkey, Pakistan, and China have captured massive global market share by reproducing traditional Persian designs at lower price points. In fact, cheaper machine-made imports are now flooding Iran's domestic market. [1, 2, 3, 4]
• Socioeconomic Strain: An estimated 2 million Iranians (primarily women in rural areas) still rely on hand-knotting rugs for their income. However, high material costs combined with low profit margins mean many weavers earn only a few dollars a day. [1, 2]

Major Active Weaving Regions

According to industry overviews, authentic Iranian carpets are still categorized by their distinct regional styles, materials, and knotting techniques: [1, 2]

• Qom: Globally recognized as the premier center for ultra-premium, 100% full-silk carpets known for their intense sheen and intricate detail.
• Isfahan & Nain: Famous for luxury masterpieces utilizing fine wool piled onto silk foundations, featuring classical, delicate medallion designs.
• Tabriz: Situated in northwest Iran, this historic hub continues to produce highly precise, diverse geometric and floral patterns.
• Bijar: Renowned for weaving exceptionally thick, heavy, and durable wool carpets often referred to as the "Iron Rugs" of Persia.
• Tribal/Nomadic Areas: Regions like Shiraz (Lori and Qashqai weavers) continue to produce portable, geometric rugs using hand-spun wool and natural botanical dyes. [1, 2, 3, 6]