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The northern province of Chiang Mai is home to the legendary Lanna or Northern Thai artisans who have long been recognized for their artistic talent and skilled craftsmanship.
The city of Chiang Mai will be hosting the Thailand Northern Handicraft and Financial Expo 2010, July 23 – 27. The expo, the first of its kind, will serve as a showcase and a convenient one-stop shop for export quality products thereby presenting a unique opportunity for local artisans and handicraft-related SMEs (small and medium-sized enterprises) in the 17 northern provinces to showcase their design creations and folk crafts and attract the attention of international buyers.
The full range of crafts that will be on display at the Thailand Northern Handicraft and Financial Expo 2010, being held at the main conference hall of Chiang Mai University, includes uniquely Lanna (Northern Thai) crafts, folk crafts and handcrafted products from local communities and village cooperatives, as well as village products from each of the ‘tambon’ or sub-districts promoted under the government-supported OTOP – One Tambon One Product – branding.
The Thailand Northern Handicraft and Financial Expo 2010 underscores the growing importance of a creative economy as one of the key drivers of sustainable development and reinforces the underlying importance of “added value” and product differentiation in order for individual entrepreneurs, particularly SMEs, to succeed in a highly competitive marketplace. It also supports policies being pursued by the Thai government to promote the development of a creative economy in Thailand.
In addition to opening doors to international trade for the local SME participants, the Thailand Northern Handicraft and Financial Expo also highlights the linkages between arts and crafts and the potential for tourism promotion and presents an opportunity to promote and reinforce Thailand’s positive brand image – especially so because Chiang Mai, the host venue, is itself a world-class tourism destination.
By highlighting the dazzling range and diversity of its arts and crafts, and culture, the Thailand Northern Handicraft and Financial Expo further reinforces the strength of the “Thailand” brand. Thailand’s diversity is without doubt one of the kingdom’s key brand assets.
Recognizing that the event plays a vital role in stimulating the local economy, various state agencies are extending their full support to ensure the success of the expo.
Related article:
CHIANG MAI – Home to the Legendary Thai Artisans
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