Why it matters:
Handicrafts and ecotourism could reverse rural migration, empower women (who make up 80% of the sector), and position Iran as a global leader in the fast-growing halal tourism market.
The Big Picture:
Iran has over 3,000 ecotourism lodges and 299 active handicraft disciplines, giving it a unique opportunity to combine cultural heritage with economic development, marketing, and international tourism growth.
What they're saying:
Minister Salehi-Amiri: “Tourism is one of the best ways to counter Iranophobia and showcase our country’s culture and heritage to the world.”
“Why shouldn’t Iran become the global flagbearer of halal tourism?” he added.
Parviz Fattah, head of the Committee for the Execution of Imam Khomeini's Order said: “We are ready to fully support cultural heritage, handicrafts, and tourism initiatives, especially to create jobs and assist the disadvantaged.”
Key Points:
- The agreement focuses on sustainable employment through handicrafts and tourism
- 80% of handicraft practitioners are women
- Iran aims for one ecotourism lodge per village to prevent migration and preserve rural identity
- Halal tourism is seen as a major opportunity, with potential markets in 57 Muslim-majority countries
- Cooperation includes marketing, domestic sales, exports, and restoration of historic sites
Go deeper:
Revival of Traditional Foods During Iranian Tourism Week
M.Majdi - seyed mohammad kazemi
