National Crafts Fair boosts the Panamanian economy with a record number of transactions


News from Panama / Friday, July 5th, 2024

With a record attendance of 61,052 people and exceeding the figures of 2023, it culminated with the 44th edition of the National Crafts Fair (FNA), organized for the second consecutive year by the Ministry of Culture (MiCultura), the fair generated commercial exchanges for a total of US$1,047,847.96 in transactions, highlighting its valuable impact on the Panamanian economy.

By 2024, it is emphasized that the province of Los Santos was the one that made the most sales, followed by the artisans of the province of Panama. Among the best-selling products were textiles in first place, with jewelry and costume jewelry occupying the second place in consumer preferences.

This artisan celebration, which brought together more than 400 artisans from all provinces and regions, has become a must that exposes the Panamanian identity through a wide variety of articles made using various artisanal techniques. In addition to the products, the fair offered a rich diversity of cultural events that complemented the experience for all attendees.

This year’s event was dedicated to “traditional clothing and their artisanal clothing techniques” and offered a varied program that included about 15 workshops and conversations related to artisanal work, entrepreneurship, the correct use of costumes, regulations on craftsmanship and copyright. These activities were attended by approximately 700 people.

In addition to the training carried out in the Atlapa salons, more than a dozen training activities and exchanges of experiences were developed in the theaters, focused on entrepreneurship and the strengthening of the creative and cultural industries. These initiatives not only strengthen the local economy, but also promote the preservation and recognition of Panama’s traditions and artisanal skills.