CTI Chairman Urges Government Support for Carpet Industry Revival

The Chairman of the Carpet Training Institute (CTI) has called upon the government to support the resurgence of the hand-woven carpet industry in Pakistan. This initiative aims to revive the once-thriving sector that has faced a decline in exports over the past decade. The proposal suggests reinstating carpet training and production centers across the province to provide essential training to skilled individuals and offer necessary facilities to manufacturers.

During the 1970s and 1980s, Punjab was home to over 80 carpet training and production centers in each tehsil headquarters, managed by the Punjab Small Industries Corporation. The Chairman highlights the importance of restoring this model to address the production shortage in the industry. The plan includes establishing institutes for carpet washing, finishing, designing, and weaving, along with common facilities centers in Lahore and Bahawalpur to streamline services.

The lack of representation in international exhibitions has been a significant hurdle for Pakistani carpet products, impacting the acquisition of export orders. In contrast, competitors from other countries receive government support for international exhibitions, giving them a competitive advantage. The proposal also suggests the creation of a permanent carpet street to enhance the visibility and demand for Pakistani carpets in the global market.

The CTI is actively exploring innovative strategies to cater to the preferences of foreign buyers of handmade carpets. A special budget allocation in the upcoming fiscal year is requested from the government to safeguard export sectors, particularly the hand-woven carpet industry, and provide support to skilled workers in the field.

The revival of Pakistan's hand-woven carpet industry holds promise for economic growth and the preservation of traditional craftsmanship. By reinstating training and production centers, enhancing international representation, and investing in skilled workers, Pakistan can reclaim its position as a leading exporter of high-quality handmade carpets.