Lao National Handicraft Branding Training Empowers Artisans and Boosts Exports
The Ministry of Industry and Commerce (MoIC), with support from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), conducted training sessions on the Lao National Handicraft Branding and Export in Savannakhet and Champasak Provinces on August 14 and 16, 2024, respectively.
In Savannakhet, the workshop was chaired by Mr. Chansamone Sisaath, Deputy Director of the Department of Trade and Handicraft Promotion(DTHP), and Mr. Sitho Tholatha, Deputy Director General of the Department of Industry and Commerce, Savannakhet Province. Over 40 representatives from handicraft cooperative groups, businesses, and government agencies at the provincial and district levels participated.
The Champasack workshop was similarly led by Mr. Chansamone Sisaath, and Dr. Phetsakhone Khorsisavath, Deputy Director General of the Department of Industry and Commerce, Champasack Province.
These workshops build on the official launch of the Lao National Handicraft Branding and related training in March 2024. They provided detailed information on essential aspects of the branding initiative, including communications, market access, and application procedures. This knowledge equips stakeholders to effectively utilize the Lao National Handicraft Branding and enables provincial officials to process branding applications.
Mr. Chansamone Sisaath, emphasized the training’s significance, stating, “This training is instrumental in helping handicraft businesses understand how the Lao National Handicraft Branding can add value to their operations. Using the branding will help boost the export of Lao handicraft products to international markets.”
Dr. Phetsakhone Khorsisavath said that “The Lao National Handicraft Branding is not just a symbol; it is a catalyst for economic growth. By empowering artisans and promoting their unique crafts on the global stage, we are creating opportunities for increased exports, sustainable livelihoods, and a thriving handicraft sector in Laos.”
The Lao National Handicraft Branding, developed with support from USAID, is poised to play a crucial role in showcasing Laos’ unique cultural heritage through its handicrafts. By promoting these crafts globally, the branding initiative will raise awareness of the country’s rich cultural traditions and foster tourism, leading to positive economic outcomes at the local level.
USAID, through the Laos Business Environment Project, is committed to supporting the Government of Lao PDR in improving the investment and trade climate and enhancing the competitiveness of small and medium-sized enterprises.
