While many people know about the larger rug making countries like China, India, or Pakistan, there are also many minor rug making countries that produce beautiful rugs.

Egypt
Egypt is arguably the most important of the minor rug making countries. They are generally known as Mamluk carpets and usually utilize geometric patterns; however, they are intricately decorated with infill patterning. Although Egyptian rug making declined after the late 18th century, it has reestablished itself in the last 20 years.
Today, Egyptian rugs are made in and around Cairo and are some of the highest quality rugs being produced anywhere. While Egyptian-made rugs are generally very expensive, they are well worth the cost because of the high standards with which they are made and the impeccable craftsmanship.

Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia
Rugs from these countries have not made their way to the Western world in any large degree. Most rugs from these areas are poorly made, gaudy items sold to tourists in bazaars. However, there are many quality, attractive nomadic rugs that can be found throughout North Africa. They are usually brightly colored and use geometric designs. They possess a primitive charm, but have not established themselves in the West, so it is hard to guess what their current prices might be. Since genuine nomadic and tribal weavings are becoming scarcer, it is most likely that these rugs will increase in value as time goes on.

Iraq
The weaving traditions in Iraq are similar to those of Persia. While many attractive and good quality items are made, they are generally for domestic use and do not make their way west.

Taiwan
Taiwanese rugs are very similar to Chinese rugs. While the quality is decent, they are inferior to Chinese rugs and are similar in price.

Tibet
While some traditional Tibetan rugs are still being produced, they are usually much too gaudy for Western tastes.

Nepal
Nepal’s rug trade is minimal, but an increasing number of high quality items are being produced there by Tibetan refugees. While the designs are mostly faithful to traditional Tibetan design, the garish colors have been toned down to pastel shades and the wool quality is excellent.

Source: Oriental Rugs Today: A Buyer’s Guide by Lee Allane