Afghanistan’s Carpet Exports Reach 37 Countries, Employing Thousands in the North
The head of Afghanistan’s Carpet Producers and Exporters Union announced that the country’s carpets are now exported to at least 37 countries worldwide, with a monthly production capacity reaching approximately 10,000 square meters. According to him, this industry in northern Afghanistan provides work for nearly 15,000 people, most of whom are women.
Abdullah Rahmanqal said on Saturday, 11 July, in an interview with the Taliban-controlled National Television that a large portion of Afghan carpets are exported to Turkey, European countries, the United States, Canada, and several Arab countries. He added that Afghan carpets hold a special place in global markets due to their quality, authentic designs, the skill of the weavers, and the use of natural wool.
According to the head of the union, Afghan carpets are offered in about 18 different quality levels to global markets. Additionally, Afghan kilims are also exported in five different quality levels to various countries.
Carpets are one of Afghanistan’s most important export items and a symbol of the country’s artistic heritage and culture. However, since the Taliban administration closed secondary schools and high schools to girls, many girls deprived of education have been forced to turn to carpet weaving workshops. Education activists previously emphasized that denying girls access to education pushes them into arduous, low-paying labor markets and poses serious challenges to the future of an entire generation.
