Tibetan carpets export markets to expand

Tibetan carpets, originating from Xizang, also known as Tibet, are one of the "three famous carpets in the world."

A company in Gyantse County has developed a Tibetan carpet business with an annual output value exceeding 12 million yuan.

The Tibetan landmark Potala Palace is recreated here stitch by stitch on a Tibetan carpet.

Tibetan carpets have rugged style with strong color contrasts, with mythical beasts being common motifs.

The carpets of this company are made using the traditional "figure-eight knot" technique, with wool as the main material.

The hanging carpets can absorb dust and small particles floating in the air.

The finished products can also be used as floor carpets or for kneeling during prayers in monasteries.

Tibetan carpets are renowned as one of the "world's three famous carpets," alongside Persian carpets and Turkish carpets.

Last year, the company's annual industrial output value exceeded 12 million yuan, with exports accounting for 30%.

Prices are calculated based on pattern complexity, ranging from 4,000 to 8,000 yuan per square metre.

Dan Zeng Cheng Lai, who is in charge of the company, says they send carpets to the UK, the US, Switzerland, and Japan.

When asked about future expansion of export markets, he says it depends on the level of foreign appreciation for Tibetan craftsmanship and culture.

This Tibetan carpet workshop employs 20 female workers, some of whom are hearing-impaired or mute.

They work seven to nine hours a day.

They previously had unstable incomes, but now earn 4,000 to 5,000 yuan per month.

The workshop also sells small souvenir items made using Tibetan carpet techniques.

Yang Ji, who heads the carpet workshop, says that working here not only provides economic support for women but also broadens their horizons.