Isfahan to plug Iranian handicrafts into global markets
Iran has launched a broad initiative to modernize its handicrafts sector and expand its global reach, with Isfahan set to serve as the driving force behind a new phase of growth, Minister of Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts Reza Salehi-Amiri said on June 15 during a ceremony marking National Handicrafts Week in the central Iranian city.
Describing handicrafts as one of Iran's most effective instruments of cultural diplomacy, Salehi-Amiri said the government is pursuing a comprehensive overhaul of the sector's production, marketing and export chain to better connect Iranian artistry with international markets, CHTN reported.
"Traditional approaches are no longer sufficient," he said. "We must redraw the path for Iranian art in global markets by utilizing modern technologies, major economic capacities and international distribution networks."
The minister said Isfahan, long regarded as Iran's foremost handicrafts hub, would spearhead the transformation.
"Isfahan must become the center of a new rise in Iran's handicrafts sector," he said. "We should prepare for a major leap that strengthens both the domestic market and Iran's share of global markets."
Salehi-Amiri said Iranian handicrafts continue to attract admiration during official meetings and overseas visits, calling the sector a powerful showcase of the country's cultural and civilizational heritage.
"Handicraft artists are, in reality, Iran's cultural ambassadors," he said. "Their works narrate the grandeur of Iranian civilization for today's and future generations."
He also announced new provincial support mechanisms aimed at boosting production, expanding market access and increasing exports. A special transformation headquarters for the handicrafts sector is expected to be established in Isfahan to accelerate implementation.
Calling Isfahan a "showcase of Iran's civilization, culture, art and heritage," Salehi-Amiri said the province plays an outsized role in projecting the country's cultural identity abroad.
The minister linked the sector's future growth to Iran's broader tourism strategy, noting that under the Seventh National Development Plan the country is working toward attracting 15 million foreign tourists. Increased visitor arrivals, he said, would directly support handicraft sales, strengthen family incomes and generate new employment opportunities across the sector.