Introduction - Product Definition of Artisanal Products

There is no universally acceptable definition for artisanal products due to the many variables involved and the different purposes for which it may be sought.

The following definition, broad enough so that it may be applied to the wide range of world’s crafts, was adopted by 44 countries’ representatives participating in the UNESCO/ITC International Symposium on "Crafts and the International Market: Trade & Customs Codification" (Manila, 1997):

"Artisanal products are those produced by artisans, either completely by hand, or with the help of hand-tools or even mechanical means, as long as the direct manual contribution of the artisan remains the most substantial component of the finished product. These are produced without restriction in terms of quantity and using raw materials from sustainable resources. The special nature of artisanal products derives from their distinctive features, which can be utilitarian, aesthetic, artistic, creative, culturally attached, decorative, functional, traditional, religiously and socially symbolic and significant".

Artisans can be basically defined as persons who carry out a manual work on their own account, often helped by family members, friends or apprentices, even workers, with whom they constantly keep personal contacts, which generate a community of intellect and attachment to the craft.

In order to encompass all those enterprises which can contribute to attaining the development objectives of the sector, the above definition on artisans should be made flexible so as to cover those artisan entrepreneurs who: (a) although not actively participating themselves in production, specialize in research, market negotiations or product design and conception; (b) also make use of machine tools or even other machinery, yet not affecting the artisanal nature of the work and the production process; (c) beyond the usual cottage or artisan unit, have associated in cooperatives or any other form of organization (even informal); (d) manage or form part of micro-, small-or medium-sized enterprises concerned with artisanal production.

Servicing crafts (including –besides servicing- installation, maintenance or repair) fall outside the focus of ITC’s activities.