Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage and skilled craftsmanship, passed down through the ages, have had a great influence on our handicrafts.

Basically, the craftsmen mostly use locally available raw materials such as wood, reed, bamboo, coconut-fiber, cane, brass and handloom fabric for the production of handicrafts. Handicrafts and giftware products for export include wooden items such as education toys, utility items like wooden gift and packaging materials, household accessories such as chopping boards, knife blocks and bathroom accessories, and clay ornaments such as terra cotta pots and vases, and porcelain ornamental items.

Manufacturers also have the flexibility to adapt to the varying requirements of buyers and product to suit their requirements. Sri Lankan handicraft manufacturers have the advantage of servicing a thriving and emerging tourist market and are therefore exposed to the different requirements and tastes of a large cross-section of buyers from overseas markets.

The Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB) has carried out design development programs, workshops and seminars, and overseas market exposure programs for the development of this industry.

The craftsmen also work closely with the government institutions such as National Craft Council, National Design Center and Sri Lanka Handicrafts Board for the development of the industry.

Sri Lanka regularly participates in major international trade fairs such as the Frankfurt International Trade Fair “Ambiente” and the Nuremberg International Toy Fair in Germany. Many buyers visit the Sri Lanka pavilion at these fairs and are impressed with the product quality and price.

Two craft villages have been set up at the Folk Art Centre, Battaramulla and Sigiriya Craft Village at Sigiriya, a renowned historical place where many tourists are attracted.

Visitors can buy and see Lanka’s rich array of traditional handicrafts being displayed at these craft villages in Battaramulla and Sigiriya. The talented craftsmen produce these items while using the common facilities available at these centers and market their products at these villages.

The tourists could see the manufacturing process of the handicrafts and also have opportunity to purchase items in one place.