The rise in affluence and purchasing power of Chinese consumers is opening a premium market for various Persian tapestries and carpets.

During the on-going trade exhibition in Shanghai, current estimates for the demand of Persian carpets and tapestries is at US $3 Billion, according to Mr. Mohammad Alikhani who heads the Iran National Carpet Center.

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Iranian consul-general to Shanghai, Mohammad Hadi Sobhani, credits the rise in demand to the additional purchasing power of Chinese citizens, spurred by the phenomenal growth of China's economy.

The Chinese citizen's taste for fine items is also rising. Persian tapestries and carpets are not cheap but are considered of high quality - recognized for their unique design and longevity. These Persian carpets and tapestries are made from fine silk or wool with natural plant pigments instead of chemicals.

Mr. Alikhani says that the purchase of these Persian carpets and tapestries is an investment in itself. He adds that the prices of carpets alone may increase five-folds in a few years.

Carpets and tapestries on-sale at the exhibition could range from US$ 645.00 (4,000 yuan) to US$ 241,569.00 (1.5 million yuan).

The exhibition attended by at least seventeen Iranian enterprises will run at the Shanghai New International Expo Center until March 28.