Artisans rewarded by Chamber

The National Handicraft Center has given out ten thousand dollars to one hundred and twenty of its most valuable suppliers. The purpose of the awards is to thank the most consistent artisans for meeting the increased demand for arts and crafts during record-breaking years in the tourism industry. News 5 spoke to Belize Chamber of Commerce President Gilbert Canton who says that there is still room for more crafts people in Belize.

Gilbert Canton, President, BCCI

“Back in 1992 there was a need seen to get a more ability for the artisans to market their products in a more efficient manner and this project was formed. Over the years it’s had some rocky ground and to this present date we’ve gotten to the position where it’s a profitable operation every year. and we thought that it was timely that we get back to the artisans to show their appreciation for all the work they’ve done and also to share with them some of the earnings over the years.”

Mark Espat, Minister of Tourism

“Well I understand from the Chamber that they do well over one hundred thousand dollars each year in sales and the network of suppliers that they have, exceed five hundred Belizeans from all over the country. These Belizeans earn their living mostly from tourism, from tourists who buy their products and certainly we want to see how we can expand that market, expand the number of Belizeans involved to give them the opportunity to have a job and to have a secure market. We need to do so by more training and certainly by marketing the product in a more aggressive manner.”

Gilbert Canton

“We have wood carvings, we have handicraft from the Mayas down south, we have handicraft from the Garifuna people. It’s across the country and everybody who wants to be a part of it can become a part of it. It’s not exclusive to any group or any culture, it’s a national broad based situation..”

If you would like to purchase or sell arts and craft, the National Handicraft Center is located on Fort Street in Belize City.