Boosting Handicraft Exports: Italian Firm Teams Up with Mazandaran for Innovative Training Program

In a significant move to enhance local artisans’ skills and promote handicraft exports, the tourism chief of Mazandaran province has announced a collaborative initiative with the renowned Italian company, Cheche. This initiative aims to provide specialized handicraft training courses, focusing on boosting both craftsmanship and market opportunities.

According to Hossein Izadi, the tourism chief, a memorandum of understanding has been signed between Iran’s Ministry of Cultural Heritage, particularly the Deputy for Handicrafts, and Cheche. This partnership emphasizes advanced training in design and fashion.

“Mazandaran has been selected as the leading and pilot province for the implementation of this program,” stated Izadi. The initiative will feature specialized online training courses tailored for handicraft professionals and university graduates, in collaboration with prestigious Italian universities.

The training will be conducted simultaneously in both Tehran and Mazandaran through virtual classes, taught by esteemed professors from Italian institutions. Participants who successfully complete the courses and pass their final exams will be awarded internationally recognized certificates issued by the Italian organizers.

In addition to the training initiative, Izadi emphasized the upcoming participation of Iranian artisans in the world’s largest handicrafts exhibition, which is set to take place next month in Italy. He noted that the Cheche company has already begun marketing handicraft products from Mazandaran, and due to the company’s strong interest, exports to Italy are anticipated to begin soon.

Here are some key highlights of this initiative:

• Collaboration with Cheche: The partnership aims to enhance local artisan skills and explore new export opportunities.
• Online Training Courses: Specialized courses will be available for handicraft professionals and university graduates.
• International Certification: Successful participants will receive certificates recognized globally.
• Global Exhibition Participation: Iranian artisans will showcase their work at the world’s largest handicrafts exhibition in Italy.
• Marketing Initiatives: Cheche is actively marketing Mazandaran’s handicraft products, paving the way for future exports.

According to available statistics, Iran exported an impressive $224 million worth of handicrafts during the last Persian calendar year, which concluded on March 20, 2025. Notably, an equal amount is estimated to have been exported through suitcase trade, as reported by the Minister of Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts.

Mazandaran province itself is not only a hub for handicrafts but also a stunning tourist destination. Its diverse landscapes include plains, prairies, forests, and rainforests, extending from the sandy beaches of the Caspian Sea to the majestic and snow-capped Alborz mountain range. This region is home to Mount Damavand, one of Asia’s highest peaks and an active volcano, further enhancing its appeal to both local and international tourists.

The initiative spearheaded by Izadi represents a vital step towards preserving and promoting the rich cultural heritage of Iranian handicrafts, while simultaneously opening new doors for artisans in the global market. As the program unfolds, it is expected to not only elevate the skillset of local artisans but also significantly improve the visibility and competitiveness of Iranian handicrafts on the international stage.

With the combination of specialized training and participation in global exhibitions, the future looks promising for Mazandaran’s artisans. This collaboration with Cheche is set to reshape the landscape of handicraft production in the region, making it a pivotal player in the international handicraft market.

In conclusion, the partnership between Mazandaran province and Cheche is a groundbreaking initiative that aims to enhance the skills of local artisans and expand their export potential. As the courses commence and participation in international exhibitions progresses, the world will get a closer look at the exquisite handicrafts that Iran has to offer.