Hey fam! 🌏 India’s famous hand-woven carpets from Indian-administered Kashmir are facing a serious snag—the U.S. just slapped a 50% tariff on imported handicrafts. That hefty tax hike is sending worries through Srinagar’s weaving lanes.
Meet Manzoor Ahmad Sofi, a veteran carpet artisan with nearly 50 years under his belt. He carefully rolls up a finished carpet in his Wantpora home, but this time there’s a shadow on his smile. Sofi’s craft isn’t just a job—it’s a family legacy, a piece of Kashmiri identity that’s powered local homes for generations.
So what’s a tariff? Think of it as an extra import fee that makes products pricier for buyers abroad. Simple: more tax means fewer orders. And for young weavers hoping to grow their online boutiques on Instagram or e-commerce sites, this could be a major roadblock.
Why does it matter? 🔍 The handicraft sector employs thousands of local talents—from carpet weaving to papier-mâché art. When export orders dip, families lose income, and centuries-old skills risk fading away.
What’s next? Artisans are exploring alternate markets in Europe and Asia, teaming up with digital platforms for direct-to-consumer sales, and pushing for government support to negotiate tariff relief. It’s a fast-paced pivot—perfect for a generation that’s mobile-first and globally connected.
For South and Southeast Asia’s young pros, this is a snapshot of how global policies directly hit your favorite homegrown crafts. Will the next trend be “Buy Kashmiri, Save a Craft”? Stay tuned—and maybe drop a supportive like 🧶❤️ if you think heritage deserves a fighting chance!
Reference(s):
U.S. 50% tariff threatens handicrafts in Indian-administered Kashmir
cgtn.com
