The Lao Handicrafts Association (LHA) is holding the Lao Handicrafts Festival from 27 October -3 November at Lao-ITECC, with more than 200 exhibitors expected to display their wares.
Artisans from around the country will be selling a wide range of handmade products including textiles, jewellery, non-timber forest products, recycled and wood products, pottery and cultural items. Food products such as coffee, tea and spices that are grown in Laos also be featured at the event.
LHA President Hansana Sisane said the event aims to support the marketing of local handicrafts, and to develop skills and products in handicrafts and weaving.
“At present, marketing, product design, quality and limited access to a viable market still pose major challenges for rural handicrafts producers.
We Are Lao recently launched a “Crafts & Products” search engine with listings at wearelao.com/crafts-and-products to promote Lao goods.
Mr Hansana said, “One week at the Lao Handicraft Festival can dramatically increase their (producers) sales and income.”
Items for sale suit all budgets, from souvenirs to high-end collectibles. A prize will also be awarded to the most attractive booth under the theme “Cultural and Natural Heritage with Tourism” as part of marking Visit Laos Year.
The festival features two zones: handicrafts and agriculture products, and One District One Product (ODOP) goods.
The festival will present fashion shows, craft demonstrations, and product design competitions. The event will also offer opportunities for producers, customers, buyers and sellers to interact, and for craftspeople and exhibitors to learn about new designs, innovations, and techniques they can adapt to improve their product range and quality.
For festival info, click here.