26th SIAT Exhibition Celebrates Algerian Craftsmanship as Cultural Heritage and Economic Driver
Algiers witnessed the grand opening of the 26th International Handicrafts Exhibition (SIAT) on Sunday, with Tourism and Handicrafts Minister Houria Meddahi presiding over ceremonies at the Moufdi Zakaria Palace of Culture. The event, running under the theme “Algerian Handicrafts: Heritage, Authenticity, and Artistic Creativity,” brings together the nation’s finest artisans in what officials describe as a celebration of both cultural preservation and economic innovation.
State Recognition of Artisanal Value
Speaking before government officials and diplomatic representatives, Minister Meddahi emphasized that this year’s exhibition reflects “the special attention the State gives to handicrafts within a national context marked by the renewal of the economic vision adopted by the country’s highest authorities.” The minister’s remarks underscored a fundamental shift in how Algerian policymakers view traditional crafts—not merely as cultural artifacts but as viable economic assets.
“The work of artisans is much more than just an economic activity,” Meddahi asserted, “as it embodies the cultural identity and living heritage of the country.” This dual recognition of both economic and cultural value marks a significant evolution in the government’s approach to the sector.
Strategic Support for Artisans
The ministry has implemented what it describes as “a strategy adapted to technical and regulatory developments” to support artisans through comprehensive measures. These include establishing “integrated pillars to strengthen training, qualification, support, and financing”—a multi-pronged approach designed to elevate traditional crafts into sustainable livelihoods.
In a move that aligns with President Abdelmadjid Tebboune’s emphasis on digitalization, the ministry has generalized the use of digital artisan cards to facilitate access to services. Additionally, a new “quality and authenticity label” has been established to protect handicraft products and enhance their value in both domestic and international markets.
Digital Transformation and Market Access
A key innovation highlighted at the exhibition was the creation of a digital platform for handicrafts. This initiative aims to streamline administrative procedures while enabling artisans to register for training sessions and participate in exhibitions worldwide. The digital push represents a significant step toward modernizing a traditionally informal sector.
Regarding promotional support, Meddahi detailed nationwide training sessions focused on “qualifying and developing the skills of artisans so they can acquire new techniques, enabling them to transform their ideas and know-how into sustainable projects.” This skills development approach seeks to bridge the gap between traditional craftsmanship and contemporary market demands.
Social Inclusion and Economic Impact
The minister emphasized the sector’s commitment to supporting artisans with specific needs and rural women, who represent over 35% of all handicraft activities. This focus forms part of the implementation of the State’s broader social policy, positioning handicrafts as a vehicle for inclusive economic development.
Current statistics reveal the sector’s substantial footprint: 470,000 registered artisans, including 150,000 women active across more than 300 distinct handicraft activities. These numbers position the sector as “an essential lever for job creation, particularly for women and youth”—a crucial consideration in Algeria’s economic diversification efforts.
Cultural Diplomacy and Tourism Promotion
Meddahi also highlighted SIAT’s role in promoting Algeria as an authentic tourist destination, describing the exhibition as a “beacon of ancestral heritage and artistic innovation, and a meeting point for economic exchange and cultural and artistic rapprochement.” The event fosters what she characterized as “bridges of friendship, cooperation, and partnership” that extend beyond mere commercial transactions.
The 26th SIAT edition, which continues until Saturday, coincides with the celebration of National Artisan Day—a symbolic alignment that reinforces the government’s message about the interconnectedness of cultural preservation and economic development in contemporary Algeria.
Source: Algerie Patriotique