Vietnam's craft villages blend tradition with booming economic growth
Viet Nam’s traditional craft villages are no longer just historical relics to preserve. They have transformed into vibrant economic and cultural hubs, driving both local livelihoods and national growth. A new government resolution now aims to turn culture into a major economic force, with these villages leading the way. With roughly 5,400 craft villages across the country, Viet Nam’s artisan sector employs about 11 million workers. Together, they generate over 2 billion USD in export revenue each year. Villages like Bát Tràng, famous for pottery, have become cultural tourism hotspots while shipping products to Japan, the Republic of Korea, and Europe.
Other villages are also adapting to modern demands. Hương Canh pottery in Bình Nguyên Commune has revived its traditions by blending them with contemporary designs. Kiêu Kỵ, the only village in Viet Nam specialising in gold leaf production, has maintained its craft for over 300 years. People’s Artist Vương Duy Biên notes that each handmade item carries not just practical value but also deep cultural stories and national identity. The shift reflects a broader national strategy. The Politburo’s Resolution 80-NQ/TW stresses culture as a key driver of sustainable development. Craft villages, once seen as guardians of heritage, are now viewed as trailblazers for economic innovation.
The government’s push to turn culture into a serious economic sector is already taking shape. Craft villages are proving their worth as engines of growth, blending tradition with modern markets. Their success points to a future where heritage and economic progress go hand in hand.
