Rewritten Title: Domestic Textile Challenges Impact Chador Production, Highlighting Need for Sector Support
Article:
A prominent figure in Iran’s modesty and veil industry has detailed significant challenges in sourcing high-quality domestic fabrics for chadors, calling for serious action and support for local production to meet consumer expectations and bolster the national industry.
Supply and Quality Shortfalls
In an interview with the Mehr News Agency, Asrin Naraqi, an activist in the field of modesty and veiling, explained that while there is a consistent customer demand, particularly with seasonal changes, the core issue lies in the available materials.
“Our regular customers usually wait for our new collections from the previous month,” Naraqi stated. “However, the problem we face is sourcing suitable quality fabric. We prefer to use Iranian products, but unfortunately, the quality of some domestic textiles cannot meet customer expectations.”
She elaborated that customers seek durable, washable garments that last at least six months—a standard that current limited domestic production in the fabric sector often struggles to meet. This sometimes forces manufacturers to turn to imported fabrics, which are available, especially in Tehran’s markets, but whose high costs—driven by design, tailoring, and import factors—inflate final prices.
The Specific Challenge of Chador Fabric
The situation becomes more complex for chadors, which require specific types of fabric. Naraqi identified the primary problem as a shortage of suitable raw Iranian fabric, particularly the plain white fabric used for chadors.
“Chador fabrics must have a smooth edge and should not be frayed,” she emphasized. “But most fabrics available in the market have frayed edges.” This creates a practical difficulty for users, as holding such a chador becomes very challenging, and sewing a hem on the edge is not a viable solution.
To circumvent this, businesses are compelled to import smooth-edged fabric from countries like China. However, this presents its own set of logistical and financial hurdles, requiring large minimum orders and significant capital investment for inventory that may not be immediately sold.
Calls for Support and Modernization
Naraqi revealed that attempts have been made to collaborate with domestic companies to produce suitable, non-fraying chador fabric, but the resulting products have lacked the desired quality and aesthetic finish.
She also pointed to a broader need for institutional support and modernization within the industry. Despite years of operation in a field aligned with national values, she reported receiving no specific benefits, such as tax exemptions or loans. Furthermore, she highlighted bureaucratic challenges, such as the inability to officially register a brand specifically for “chador” or “hijab” due to its absence in formal apparel classification categories.
The activist also critiqued the presentation and marketing of modesty products, stating that exhibition spaces often lack the appealing, modern, and stylish environments that attract younger audiences. She argued that creativity in design and presentation is crucial for engagement.
“Even if modesty should be simple and unadorned, the audience’s taste must still be considered,” Naraqi noted. “When a space is not created that the young audience can connect with or find attractive, they are naturally drawn to other choices.”
The ongoing challenges underscore a critical need for targeted support, investment in modern manufacturing equipment for higher-quality domestic fabric production, and a refreshed, consumer-oriented approach to promoting the national modesty and veiling industry.