ABSTRACT
This chapter assesses some of the economic and spatial arguments in favour of the promotion of rural handicraft industries in support of tourism. It argues that the pragmatists have a quite convincing case, especially in the country’s peripheral and economically depressed regions. Tourism represents a potentially powerful means by which economic activity might be spread to peripheral, economically underdeveloped areas. The argument that tourism undermines traditional arts and crafts is therefore far from being conclusive. The promotion of traditional handicrafts in support of tourism may rekindle people’s awareness of their role and importance, and also their vulnerability in the face of modernisation and rapid social change. An equally convincing argument, especially for the peoples of peripheral, economically depressed areas, is provided by the economic benefits that may accrue from their claiming a share of the spoils from the rapid development of the tourism industry.
