The Oman-based National Carpet Factory (NCF), which produces polypropylene wall-to-wall carpets, woven rugs and plastic mats, has expanded its product portfolio and has emerged triumphant in new markets, says engineer Ibrahim Al Sheyyab, general manager.

"We recently launched production of a new double-point carpet product which basically increases the density of the pile yarn by 100 per cent, rendering a carved effect to the design," he says.

The company has also broken into the Libyan market which is set to replace the US as its largest export market this year.

NCF exported about 45 per cent of its production to the US, Bahrain, France, Qatar and Yemen last year, he says.

The company has a capacity to manufacture 60,000 sq m of carpets per month. It has technical collaboration with a Belgian firm and has state-of-the-art ARD looms. The looms are connected to a computer with advanced CAD design facility which makes it possible to weave any design of customer's choice in wall-to-wall or area rugs. The company also has a dedicated computer design team.

National Carpet Factory has computerised electronic jacquard with "incorporated weaving technology".

"In this technology, unlike other carpets, there is no floating pile at the back of the carpet, giving the carpet extra strength and life," says Al Sheyyab.

"Quality is of paramount importance to us. Right from the stage of selection of yarn, which is imported, to finished carpets, high quality materials are used. Our carpets are stain-proof, washable, long-lasting and low-cost."

NCF produces rugs in a wide range of traditional and modern designs in different sizes.

NCF has the capability to custom design wall-to-wall carpets to suit the requirements of corporate offices, hotels and other clients. It has also recently installed a moquette production machine.

"The carpet market in the Gulf is very competitive with manufacturers from all over the world being represented in the region," he points out.

"We are currently concentrating on woven rugs and planning to expand capacity," he adds.