One of the most important links in the value chain of handwoven carpet production and trade is the supply, production, and distribution of raw materials. This link is highly complex and specialized due to the variety of raw materials used in producing colored wool yarns (carpet pile yarns), cotton, and silk, as well as the diversity of supply locations. Given the wide geographical distribution of carpet production across Iran, the types and characteristics of raw materials used vary greatly, adding further complexity to this sector. This research studies the potential for establishing supply and distribution centers for raw materials in the northern provinces of Iran (East Azerbaijan, West Azerbaijan, and Ardabil) and the northwestern provinces (Kurdistan, Kermanshah, and Ilam). Data were collected through expert interviews and questionnaires, and analyzed both quantitatively and qualitatively using statistical methods to test three main hypotheses: the impact of establishing such centers on the quality of produced carpets, the reduction of production costs, and the effect on the final price of carpets.

The findings indicate that the establishment of raw material supply centers has a significant positive impact on cost reduction and raw material quality, and consequently on the final price of carpets in production regions. Moreover, these centers help reduce monitoring and quality-control expenses due to regional concentration. Regular and organized supervision by standardization experts and technical inspectors ensures the consistent quality of raw materials, thereby contributing to overall quality assurance. The study also examines the current situation of raw material supply, production, and distribution on a national scale and within the target provinces. It compares the existing capacities, domestic production, imports, and current consumption levels of raw materials. Furthermore, the main components of the supply, production, and sales chain for yarns used in handwoven carpets were identified. Based on these analyses, practical recommendations are proposed for establishing necessary production units by province and creating specialized raw material sales centers in each city to strengthen the handwoven carpet industry’s supply chain.