Tehran – Iran exports $224 million worth of handicrafts in the current Persian calendar year (starting March 20, 2024), and is estimated to have been exported through suitcase trade, according to cultural heritage, tourism and handicrafts.
Speaking to reporters on Wednesday after the cabinet meeting, Seyed Reza Salehi-Amiri said the government is actively working to remove barriers to handicraft exports. He highlighted the resolution of the foreign exchange commitment in cooperation with the central bank of Iran (Iran) as a major step forward. Furthermore, he said there is an ongoing effort to provide insurance to handicraft artists.
“Handicrafts are entering a new era with a promising future ahead of time,” Salehi Amiri said. He also said that the chairman of the World Crafts Council (Saeed al-Qaddoumi) calls Iran a “paradise of handicrafts,” highlighting the high artistic and commercial values of Iranian artisan creation on the international stage.
In another comment, Salehi Amiri addressed the cultural significance of overlapping observances between Knowles and Ramadan in Iranian history. He expressed his confidence that people would respect the Ramadan tradition while maintaining social vitality, recalling past cases in which similar cultural intersections were smoothly managed by the public.
Last week, in his closing ceremony speech at the 9th International FAJR Handycraft Festival, also known as SARV-E Simin, he expressed his deep appreciation for Iran’s contribution to global handicrafts. He acknowledged Iran’s rich artistic heritage and its recognition as a leader in preserving and celebrating traditional crafts. “Iran has always held a special place in my heart… With 16 cities and villages designated as global handicraft hubs, the dedication to Iran’s artistic tradition is unparalleled,” he said.
Additionally, Al-Qaddoumi spread his gratitude to all those involved in organizing the festival, highlighting the importance of strengthening the relationship between Iranian artisans and their international counterparts.
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