Lot of Bhutanese artisans and craftsmen are facing a stiff competition from the cheaply mass produced imported products. In order to retain the pride of the craftsmanship, the Agency for Promotion of Indigenous Crafts, APIC, has introduced the ‘Made in Bhutan Seal’ under the concept of ‘Seal of Origin’ for the Bhutanese handicrafts sector.
It will safeguard and promote the individuality of genuine Bhutanese handicrafts and ensure handicraft. It will also ensure handicraft sector become more sustainable and economically viable, benefiting Bhutanese artisans and dealers.
According to the Marketing and Promotions Manager, Tshering Pelden, every handicraft product will not get the seal. “We have set of criteria and processing requirements that need to be fulfilled to avail certificate for the seal of origin,” she said, adding that they would be monitoring the quality.
“So far we don’t have seal of origin. Now we can identify whether it is imported products or origin from Bhutan, it is very helpful to the artisans and business people” said Ten Dorji, Chairman of the Crafts Bazaar in Thimphu.
The seal of origin, Made in Bhutan is first kind of seal in the country. It was launched on May 14.
