Artisans Learn From Report Findings

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Art

Thursday, 18 November 2010 06:55

By J. Murphy

A shortage of raw materials, improper packaging, and lengthy production times are among the factors hampering local art and craft producers, according to the OECS Export Development Unit's findings.

The findings, the result of a diagnostic review and analysis of the OECS EDU clients, were revealed Wednesday at the Antigua and Barbuda Hospitality Training Institute.

The survey spanned 98 producers in nine islands, 20 of whom were from Antigua & Barbuda. Of the producers, all of whom are over 35, 62 percent are female. Among the concerns which arose from the survey was that although educated, the producers were self-taught in their fields, pointing to the lack of training in the arts and crafts fields.

It was also noted that there was insufficient branding, and some articles were overpriced.

Of the companies surveyed, only six percent were exporting their products, and of that six percent, only 10 percent of their products were being exported. They were, in addition, only reaching 10 percent of the available market.

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Lesley-Ann Noel, lead consultant on the project, presented the findings. When she opened the floor for discussion, one of the main concerns was the government’s lack of assistance in protecting this sector with tax breaks. Although duty free concessions are available, it was felt that this was not adequate to protect this delicate industry.

The presentation got off to a late start as organisers awaited the arrival of the local television channel.

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