The head of the Carpet Training Institute (CTI) today issued a compelling call for Pakistan’s handmade carpet industry to adopt a digital-first approach, emphasizing that integrating e-commerce and forging direct online connections with international buyers is essential for boosting exports in a rapidly evolving global marketplace.
CTI Chairperson Ijazur Rehman delivered the message while addressing a seminar titled ‘Access to Global Markets through E-Commerce.’ He stressed that such digital reforms should become a permanent fixture in policy to guarantee better international access for Pakistani products. The event drew a large attendance of carpet producers and trade representatives.
Rehman, who was also lauded by attendees for his outstanding role as Chief Organizer of the 41st International Exhibition of Handmade Carpets, identified the development of robust social media strategies and the improvement of online commercial platforms as pivotal steps for industry players to overcome the fundamental challenges of selling goods on the internet.
He informed the audience that numerous virtual marketplaces are available to Pakistani vendors, encouraging them to create accounts on prominent platforms such as eBay, Craigslist, Etsy, and Amazon Global. Furthermore, he pointed to social commerce hubs like Facebook Marketplace and other applications like Mercari and 5miles as viable channels.
The CTI Chairperson also highlighted the promotional power of visual-centric platforms like Instagram and YouTube, along with direct communication tools such as WhatsApp. He underscored the importance of providing clear and accurate product details and pricing online, noting that this information is the primary basis for a customer”s purchasing decision.
Addressing potential technical barriers, Rehman noted the accessibility and affordability of modern website builders. He mentioned that services including Wix, Squarespace, and Zyro offer sophisticated features like AI heat maps, making it easier than ever for businesses to establish a professional online store.
In his concluding remarks, Ijazur Rehman strongly encouraged the nation”s handmade carpet manufacturers and exporters to incorporate these digital tools into their business models and to develop comprehensive online sales strategies to elevate exports of Pakistan’s world-renowned carpets.