The Iranian Handicrafts Exporters’ Association is targeting a 50% increase in exports in the next fiscal year that starts on March 20, 2016.
Quoting Majid Reza Hariri, the president of the association, the Persian daily Donya-e-Eqtesad reports that handicraft exports rose by 13% in March-September 2015, nearly three times over and above the 4.6% growth of non-oil exports last year (March 2014-15).
“Due to increasing global interest to do business with Iran, meeting the ambitious export target seems plausible,” he said, adding that once foreign tourists start arriving into the country, promoting the industry and exporting handicraft should become easier.
The association, whose stated aim is to also become more involved in the tourism industry, has targeted emerging markets, including Brazil, Russia and China to promote its wares.
“Nearly 25% of Iran’s total non-oil exports end up in China,” Hariri added.
The association, which was officially established on December 14, represents the private sector’s interests in the industry and advises the Iran Cultural Heritage, Handicrafts and Tourism Organization.
