Afghan Carpets Win First Place in Istanbul Carpet Exhibition 2026

Afghan carpets secured first place in the design category at the 2026 International Carpet Exhibition held in Istanbul, outperforming entries from 19 countries. This achievement has once again drawn global market attention to this traditional industry.

This topic was discussed in a meeting organized by the Union of Afghan Carpet Makers and Exporters in Kabul. Several Taliban officials attending the meeting stated that carpets are a part of Afghanistan’s ancient culture and historical identity, which have made the country’s name prominent in international markets.

According to them, the Taliban administration, along with the private sector, has promised to facilitate employment opportunities and work to remove existing barriers to carpet exports—barriers that have for years made it difficult for Afghan carpets to reach international markets.

Officials from the Afghan Carpet Exporters Union emphasized that carpets from 19 countries were exhibited at this event, with Afghan carpets winning first place based on design criteria. This success could create new opportunities for producers and communities dependent on this industry.