Over the weekend, Ms. Rozeta Hajdari, the Minister of Industry, Entrepreneurship and Trade, participated in the opening of the Winter Crafts Exhibition organized by the Chamber of Entrepreneurs and Craftsmen in Prizren in cooperation with the Koblenz Chamber of Crafts.
Craftsmanship in Kosovo has a long history dating back to ancient times. Craftsmen and their creations have played a significant role in the economic development of cities, with crafts often being divided by location. In cities where craftsmanship is well-developed, streets or sections of the city are still designated for specific types of crafts. This can be seen in cities like Peja, Gjakova, Prizren, Prishtina, Mitrovica, Vushtrri, Janjeva, and Gjilan.
Minister Hajdari emphasized the importance of preserving ancient traditions and culture in the digital age. She stated that by promoting and developing craftsmanship and traditional handicrafts, not only are cultural values preserved, but employment opportunities and national income are also increased.
Furthermore, Minister Hajdari pointed out that Law No. 2004/44 on Crafts has not been amended/supplemented since 2004. This lack of revision has left many crafts (artisans), who were once key drivers of economic development, without support and facing the risk of disappearing in Kosovo.
During this term, the Ministry of Industry, Entrepreneurship and Trade (MIET) has established strategic and specific objectives and provided support for the grant scheme in the field of craftsmanship, which was launched this year by the Kosovo Investment and Enterprise Support Agency (KIESA).
The new draft law on craftsmanship, which has already been prepared by MIET, will regulate the activities and conditions for carrying out handicraft activities. The law will address the naming of handicraft (artisan) industries, the granting of artisan titles, the certification of artisan products, the fundamentals of education and training tailored to the requirements of carrying out handicraft activities, and support measures to promote handicraft activities.
Minister Hajdari emphasized that this draft law aims to not only preserve cultural heritage but also to connect handicrafts with contemporary technology and innovation, making this sector more sustainable and competitive.
Wishing success to craftsmen in their work, Minister Hajdari assured that the Ministry of Industry, Entrepreneurship and Trade will continue to support this sector through grant schemes and promotion at local and international fairs.
