Senior experts for Lao handicrafts attend a seminar to share experience and knowledge of the Lao handicrafts and culture on weekend.

LHA boosting Lao sashes amongst top products in woven handicrafts
 
The Lao Handicraft Association (LHA) is keen to promote the preservation and use of handicraft products, especially unique locally made apparel, so that people acknowledge the value of these items.
The LHA organised “The Handicrafts Market in Garden” at Lani Guesthouse in Vientiane to introduce local handicrafts to international buyers. The event was also part of a project to build the capacity of micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) that is funded by the International Labour Organisation (ILO).
In her opening remarks, the President of LHA, Ms Visouta Praseuth, said the event was aimed at promoting local handicrafts, raising awareness among the people about the use of Lao products, and showcasing Lao sashes as one of the most outstanding products from the textile sector.
“This two-day exhibition held on weekend – July 16-17 – has several important activities that will contribute to promoting Lao handicraft products and raising the value of Lao outfits among domestic and foreign buyers,” she said.
There was a special display of Lao sashes, a meeting for the exchange experiences between firms from the handicrafts sector, a discussion on topic “Lao sash attraction”, and a mini catwalk by children featuring Lao apparel and sashes.
“This exhibition is a small platform to promote local handicraft products, especially Lao  apparel and sashes, but it is meaningful for the Lao textile sector and it will contribute to promoting the growth of business operations in this field,” Ms Souvita said.  
The LHA was established to develop the quality of Lao handicrafts, to promote the distribution of products in domestic and international markets, and to generate income for all ethnic minority groups. Besides helping to improve local businesses in this sector, it has enabled artisans to overcome poverty.
The handicrafts sector generates considerable income alongside other key drivers. According to the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, the value of industrial processed goods and handicrafts was recorded at 6.683,6 billion kip in the first six months of this year, or 51.3 percent of the year’s plan and a 14.9 percent increase when compared to the same period of last year.

By Times Reporters
(Latest Update July 19, 2022)