Iran Leverages Unique Advantages to Boost Textile Industry Development

According to SAEDNEWS, Currently, Tehran is hosting an international exhibition focused on the textile industry, attracting participation from over 290 companies both domestic and from 13 different countries. This event serves as a platform for showcasing capabilities, exchanging advancements, and exploring investment and trade opportunities.

The Iran International Textile Industry Exhibition, aptly named "IRANTEX," features around 170 domestic companies alongside 120 foreign exhibitors from countries including Germany, Italy, Taiwan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, South Korea, Turkey, Pakistan, Austria, Switzerland, India, Japan, and China.

Representatives from some of the world's leading textile and apparel exporting nations—China, India, and Turkey—are also present, contributing 100, 18, and 12 companies respectively to the 30th international exhibition, which focuses on textile machinery, raw materials, home textiles, embroidery machines, and textile products.

One of Iran's key advantages is easy access to raw materials. Currently, approximately 50% of the textile industry’s cotton demands are met through domestic production, though this number was once as high as 100% two decades ago. In terms of silk, Iran produces over 50% of its own requirements, equating to about 330 tons of silk thread, indicating that with strategic support, the country could soon achieve full self-sufficiency.

Additionally, Iran's abundant oil and gas resources bolster its petrochemical capacity, which is essential for the production of synthetic fibers.

The country's domestic market, consisting of 85 million people and generating a turnover of $30 billion, acts as a significant driver for the textile industry. Furthermore, there exists a broader market of 400 million people in nearby regions such as Central Asia and the Caucasus.

Historically, Iran boasts a rich textile legacy, with archaeological evidence suggesting that textiles have been produced for at least 10,000 years. The ancient Persians were known for crafting exquisite textiles and carpets that were renowned for their intricate designs and vibrant colors.

Despite its storied history, the textile and apparel industry in Iran has faced challenges over the past three decades. A surge in imported goods—both legal and illegal—has caused the industry’s contribution to the nation’s GDP to plummet from 6.4% to under 1%. As Iran seeks to revitalize this pivotal sector, the current exhibition serves as a testament to the potential opportunities that lie ahead.