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Iconic Persian carpet designs set for global protection
Iranian carpet authorities are stepping up efforts to protect the intellectual property of the country’s renowned handwoven carpets, while pursuing a broader strategy to revive exports and strengthen the sector’s global presence, Mohammad Veysian, deputy head of the Iranian National Carpet Center said in Tehran on Sunday ahead of National Carpet Day on June 10.
Veysian said the organization has expanded cooperation with international intellectual property bodies to counter the copying of authentic Iranian carpet designs and motifs abroad.
“Persian handwoven carpets remain the global benchmark for quality,” Veysian told reporters. “Protecting the originality of Iranian designs in international forums has become one of our main priorities.”
He said specialized legal workshops have been launched to help producers and exporters navigate international mechanisms for defending the intellectual property rights of Iranian carpets.
The initiative comes as Iranian handwoven carpets continue to reach markets across 61 countries. Although annual exports currently stand at about $50 million, officials said the breadth of destination markets shows the enduring appeal and recognition of Persian carpets worldwide.
“The diversity of our export markets shows that Iranian handwoven carpets still hold a distinguished position internationally,” Veysian said, adding that stronger support for producers and targeted market development would be needed to expand exports.
Separately, Yahya Ale-Es’haq, chairman of Iran’s Carpet Steering Council and an adviser to the Minister of Industry, Mine and Trade, announced the completion of a national transformation roadmap for the handwoven carpet industry.
The strategy, developed with universities, industry associations, veteran artisans and market specialists, covers production, design, marketing, exports and domestic consumption and is expected to be submitted to the cabinet for approval.
“Carpet is not merely an export commodity. It embodies Iranian identity, artistry and generations of accumulated knowledge,” Ale-Es’haq said.
He described the revival of the sector as both an economic and cultural priority, noting its role in job creation, rural livelihoods and the preservation of traditional craftsmanship. While export revenues have fallen sharply from historical highs, he said the global reputation of the Persian carpet remains a powerful asset.
“The Iranian brand and the Persian carpet’s identity still provide a strong foundation for renewal,” he said.
Officials also reiterated that only authentic Iranian carpets will be permitted at specialized domestic carpet exhibitions, part of broader efforts to safeguard the heritage and reputation of one of Iran’s most celebrated cultural exports.