Ministry of Commerce turns local crafts into economic powerhouses
Tasked with transforming traditional crafts into a potent form of soft power, the Ministry of Commerce has charged the Sustainable Arts and Crafts Institute of Thailand (SACIT) with the mission of preserving the nation’s unique artistic heritage while making it appealing to both the younger generation and international audiences.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce Phumtham Wechayachai laid out the vision for SACIT in Ayutthaya’s Bang Sai District. He emphasised the vital role of preserving, maintaining, and developing traditional handicrafts as a cornerstone of Thailand’s cultural influence.
“We aim to boost economic value while enhancing creators’ skills to align with global trends, ensuring the essence of Thai identity remains intact.”
The ministry’s broader mission encompasses the development of community enterprises and public initiatives in intellectual property, registration, and export promotion. By collaborating with various partners, the ministry seeks to maximise the value of Thailand’s rich cultural identity, fostering national pride and cultivating a new, creative generation.
SACIT is envisioned as more than just a showcase for crafts; it will serve as a cultural hub and learning centre for traditional and contemporary arts. This centre aims to attract tourists and locals, making it a vibrant part of the central provinces’ cultural landscape, reported Pattaya Mail.
In related news, in a historic milestone for Thai cinema, Uranus2324, the nation’s first space science fiction film, is set to premiere on July 4. This highly anticipated film has already garnered significant attention, being one of only four films to receive funding under Thailand’s Soft Power initiative and securing global distribution deals.
In other news, Deputy PM Phumtham embarked on an international mission to amplify Thailand’s soft power and enhance Thai-Japan trade. This trip, which took place on May 11 and 12, took the minister to Tokyo, Japan, where he participated in the 24th Thai Festival Tokyo event.
