The Maldives is regarded as one of the most desirable tourist destinations in the world, with visitors into the country far surpassing its own population of only 300, 000. Tourism forms the backbone of the Maldivian economy, and the last 35 years have seen a rapid move towards the luxury market, bringing in much needed revenue for the country. Despite this, the income gap has widened with the tourist dollar flowing into the hands of a rich few, as well as into the hands of a large expatriate workforce.

Apart from fisheries, the majority of trade goods are imported, including handicrafts. 95% of all cultural artefacts bought by tourists are brought in from Indonesia, China, and other neighbouring countries. This has been detrimental to the creation of an alternative avenue for income generation, and has suppressed the growth of an indigenous artisan class. The rich cultural heritage and identity of the Maldives is now an endangered facet of daily life in the islands, as the forces of globalisation have combined to create new jobs, and demand new skills that appeal to the modern industries.

Establishing CACTC

In 2000, CACTC was established in the hope of reviving these invaluable traditions. The aim was to motivate innovative, yet disenchanted youth, to embrace the artistic skills of our forefathers, and steer their creative energies into a sustainable livelihood. The island of Thulhaadhoo was significant in the movement, as this is where the art of Maldivian handicraft making has been most preserved, such as lacquer work and lathing. Since its inception, CACTC has built itself a reputation in encouraging independent requests, and promoting the development of new centres across the atolls, the latest of which is now in construction at Hanimaadhoo.

Barriers to growth

Despite the progresses made in supporting such creative ventures, the new artists that are surfacing today face many challenges ahead. One is the difficulty in penetrating a highly rigid and controlled market, wherein which retailers, hotel owners, and tour guides work together to ensure that tourists visit stores only within their monopoly. Imported handicrafts therefore are in easy reach for tourists, while locally produced goods are marginalised and neglected. Such strategies of control are not just confined to the commercial realm, but are also a governmental issue. The lack of policy regarding the matter exacerbates the positioning of Maldivian handicrafts, and their creators- a problem that could be overcome by providing subsidies and support to artisans, and allowing them to compete with cheaper imports.

Nevertheless, a strong home market has been found within the national population for locally sourced, and locally produced handicrafts. This is manifest in the success of CACTC’s flagship store in Male’, Heritage, which provides the students at the centres a steady income through the sales of their artworks. This also ensures that such ancient cultural skills remain circulating and in production in Maldivian society, rather than being swept away with the tides of globalisation.