Regional Government promoted certification of works of over 21 artisans with "Azores Handicrafts" brand
The Vice-President of the Government promoted the certification of the works of over 21 artisans with the collective brand of origin "Azores Handicrafts." This measures falls within the Government's policies for promotion of business competitiveness through the enhancement of regional products.
Currently, 518 craft production units have been registered at the Regional Centre for Handicrafts (CRAA), of which 159 have been registered since 2012. This demonstrates the significant increase resulting from the actions and projects developed in the area of handicrafts as a product of tourism and identity value for the Azores.
The certification of craft products, which is translated into the seal of origin and quality, is fundamental to promote their dissemination and marketing, contributing not only to the cultural recognition of these products but also to their differentiation in markets.
The evaluation of products is carried out through CRAA by a technical Monitoring Commission that includes representatives of INOVA, Regional Directorate for Support to Investment and Competitiveness, Regional Directorate for Culture and Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the Azores.
This commission has assessed about 80 traditional craft pieces in the following areas: food, namely the "espécies" from São Jorge (traditional local sweet), basketry, pottery, pottery, glazed pottery, figurative ceramics, tiles, nativity scenes in "lapinha" (sea-themed nativity scene), fish scales, lace, Holy Christ of Miracles "registo" (representation), fig tree pith, embroidery and weaving.
There are currently 21 handicraft areas certified with the "Azores Handicrafts" brand; Corvo wooden locks being the last product to be approved in early 2017.
CRAA is conducting research works in order to approve another products, namely "viola da terra" (traditional Azorean guitar) and sweet bread.