Afghanistan has a long and rich carpet-weaving tradition. Provinces such as Herat, Kunduz, and Balkh remain internationally known for their beautiful, high-quality rugs. To assist Afghan carpet weavers in promoting their unique products, USAID supported the 2nd Kabul International Carpet Fair at Kabul’s historic Babur Gardens. Together with the Export Promotion Agency of Afghanistan, the German Technical Cooperation and Standard Charter Bank, USAID helped lead this event which attracted more than 90 carpet dealers from nine Afghan provinces. Vendors showcased their best products to rug importers and investors from around the world. Customers, recognizing the value of the carpets, purchased nearly $2 million worth of goods at the fair. The event also gave Afghan carpet vendors the opportunity to build new relationships with national and international customers, laying the foundation for future growth. Supporting trade fairs such as this is an integral part of USAID’s efforts to link Afghan producers to customers
both domestically and abroad.