The Pakistani pavilion drew sustained attention at the Heimtextil trade fair in Frankfurt, where European buyers showed strong interest in Pakistan’s handmade carpets owing to their intricate patterns, vibrant colour palettes, and heritage craftsmanship.

Throughout the exhibition halls, sellers were seen rolling out carpets for inspection, closing deals within minutes, and exchanging contacts for future orders — reflecting renewed international demand.

After securing renewed traction in the United States, Pakistani carpet exporters are now shifting focus towards the European market, using the world’s largest home textile exhibition as a strategic entry point. Participants reported buyer turnout and purchasing interest far exceeding expectations, with handmade traditional carpets emerging as a standout category.

Industry representatives noted that additional US tariffs on Indian goods have indirectly benefited Pakistan, reviving hopes for a sector that has seen years of decline. With strong US uptake already underway, exporters are now working to establish a stronger European footprint, leveraging Heimtextil as a timely commercial platform.

Encouraged by the response, industry players have set a goal to lift export earnings from the historical peak of USD 350 million to USD 500 million.

For the first time, Pakistan has established a dedicated national pavilion for carpets at Heimtextil, showcasing 10 companies — many of them first-time European exhibitors and smaller exporters who are marketing directly to continental buyers.

Industry officials expressed satisfaction over Pakistan’s re-engagement in high-profile international exhibitions after a prolonged gap and praised the positive buyer sentiment.

Exporters reported exceptionally strong sales performance. One participant noted that nearly 90% of displayed inventory was sold within the first two days, attributing demand to the carpets’ handmade quality, durability and distinct aesthetic appeal.