The head of the Carpet Training Institute (CTI) has issued a strong call for Pakistan’s traditional handmade carpet industry to adopt modern digital technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), as a crucial strategy to navigate challenging economic conditions and bolster its global competitiveness.
Addressing a gathering of manufacturers and exporters today, CTI Chairperson Ijaz ur Rehman asserted that while the artistry of skilled artisans remains the foundation of the sector, AI can serve a transformative function in modern design, colour harmonisation, and analysing international market dynamics.
He acknowledged that despite the esteemed global reputation of Pakistan”s handmade carpets, the sector is grappling with difficult economic circumstances. Nevertheless, both individual stakeholders and industry organisations are making dedicated efforts to support and advance the long-established craft.
Mr Rehman elaborated that the institute”s training programmes are dual-focused, imparting practical skills in conventional carpet weaving while also equipping trainees with vital digital competencies. “By combining heritage craftsmanship with innovation and technology, we can safeguard and revitalize this historic industry,” he remarked.
To enhance market penetration, the chairperson stressed the necessity of robust digital marketing, including the effective use of social media, e-commerce platforms, and strategic online branding to increase exports.
He proposed the use of AI-powered tools to evaluate consumer behaviour and shifting global preferences, allowing Pakistani carpets to preserve and grow their international market share. He added that adopting such digital solutions would improve productivity and also create new employment prospects for skilled artisans.
Reaffirming the CTI’s dedication, Mr Rehman concluded that his organisation will persist in its mission to elevate the handmade carpet sector by merging time-honoured techniques with state-of-the-art technology.