TEHRAN – To make it easier for tourists to enjoy local handicrafts, Chaharmahal Bakhtiari’s handicrafts department opened several new markets and centers this summer, local officials said.
“21 permanent and temporary craft markets and centers will be opened across the province for the summer season,” Mehrab Mohammadi told Iran News Agency on Friday.
Mohammadi highlighted that there are three permanent handicraft markets in the state.
He added that as the state’s pleasant climate attracts many tourists during summer, efforts are being made to set up temporary handicraft centres in popular tourist spots.
Mohammadi added that the centers aim to capitalize on summer tourism to showcase and sell local handicrafts.
“Following the emphasis of the late President Ayatollah Raisi on establishing a permanent handicraft market at the entrance to the city, steps are being taken in the province to secure land for such a project,” Mohammadi noted.
He noted that while demand for handicrafts depends on household income, the high number of tourists in the summer boosts sales. The most popular handicrafts include felt products, traditional jewellery, gemstones, metal crafts, embroidery and handwoven items. “Smaller and more affordable items tend to attract more tourists,” the official added.
In his final remarks, Mohammadi said that of the 80 handicraft sectors identified in the state, 50 are currently active, while the rest have been largely forgotten.
XF/AM
