Why supporting handicrafts for export is necessary for a nation's growth
One way to represent a country’s culture, tradition and heritage is through handicrafts. These are an expression of a location's distinct lifestyle. It reminds anyone - both locals and tourists - of a nation’s history. Handicrafts are produced from raw materials made by hand or with the help of small tools.
Handicrafts play an important role in representing the culture and tradition of a country or region aside from it being a productive sector. Especially for countries or regions that are rich in traditional art, handicrafts are substantial in preserving their heritage and culture. Think of it this way - it's a way of showing how a certain region or place grows, with the intricate markings or makings of their chosen crafts.
In the Philippines, there is a non-profit, non-stock organization which supports and promotes Filipino handicrafts. The Philippine Chamber of Handicraft Industries, Inc. (PCHI) is an organization of traders, manufacturers and exporters of Philippine handicrafts. It was established to showcase the creativity and talent of the Filipinos. To promote Filipino-made crafts, the organization exports the products to different places around the world.
It is also important in terms of economic development. It is a low capital investment which provides room for employment. Say a country has the products such as handicrafts that foreigners patronize; they bring in revenue that can be used to re-invest. Doing business with handicrafts has expanded its scale and has generated capital faster which in turn contributes to the over-all economic activity.
It's a win-win situation. Handicraft manufacturers get to continue their hard-to-preserve craft with enough financial support from the PCHI. The craft in itself is developed, allowing people to learn more of the handicrafts offered. More designs can potentially be produced even more, which can prove pretty handy since there is now a chance for these products to be exported. And handicraft manufacturers need not worry on a shortage of demand - collectors of Filipino handicrafts are aplenty abroad. Also, the Philippines in general benefits greatly - the world will get to learn more about the Pearl of the Orient's identity, mainly because of the creativity and ingenuity found in the crafts.
Come to think of it, handicrafts are more than just hand-made objects to treasure or to be given out as gifts. It's a reflection of a nation's soul, the very tapestry of it's people's choices. More than just an object, by helping support handicraft groups like the PCHI, will help light up a brighter, artistic future.