The Colombian handicraft sector increasingly reaches international markets, with $19 million worth of exports between 2007-2010, reports economic magazine Dinero.
The sector typically exports products such as candles, ceramics, items made of vegetable fibers, leather, and wood.
Statistics released by Artesanias de Colombia show that artisan crafts have average sales of $8 million a year.
Handicrafts are also increasingly important in the Colombian economy, making up 15% of employment in domestic manufacturing, with 350,000 people deriving their livelihood exclusively from this industry.
Proexport, the company in charge of the promotion of Colombian export products and tourism, is attempting to further strengthen Colombia’s international presence. The agency has invited five important American buyers to Medellin’s upcoming Expoartesano fair.
The fair will be held from November 3-8 in the Plaza Mayor in Medellin and present handicrafts from the top 200 artisans from Colombia.