The third edition of the Articrea professional expo for traditional crafts kicked off on Wednesday, October 7, 2026, at the Kram Exhibition Center in Tunis. The event drew international buyers, foreign delegations, and representatives from several diplomatic missions accredited in Tunisia. The expo aims to promote Tunisian handicrafts, foster partnerships, and explore new export opportunities. Over 228 craft enterprises are participating, including 40% run by higher education graduates.
According to Leila Maslati, Director-General of the National Office for Traditional Industries, the expo provides a platform for international buyers to discover the diversity of Tunisian handicrafts and establish professional relationships that could lead to continuous orders throughout the year. This, she believes, will ensure the sustainability of craft enterprises and artisans' activities. Key exported handicrafts include olive wood products, traditional ceramics, textiles, and plant fibers.
Maslati highlighted that traditional craft exports reached nearly 85 million dinars by the end of August 2026, registering a 3% growth compared to the previous year. She attributed this growth to the sector's potential for expansion into European, American, and Arab markets. The event also showcases products such as herb and flower distillates, which have seen significant development and are attracting more young people and higher education graduates.
Claudio Duta, General Manager of a Romanian company specializing in construction equipment, visited the expo to explore cooperation opportunities and learn about Tunisian culture and traditional industries. He expressed interest in potential partnerships with Tunisian enterprises, citing the richness of local culture and traditional crafts. Duta was particularly drawn to traditional ceramics in Sajnane and discovered various Tunisian handicrafts during his visit.
Iton Micallef, CEO of the Maltese Traditional Industries Foundation, noted similarities between Tunisian and Maltese traditional crafts, particularly in embroidery, ceramics, and traditional tiles. He believed this convergence could form the basis for joint cooperation in promotion and export. Micallef advocated for exchanges between Tunisian and Maltese artisans and professionals to develop mutual understanding and benefit from each other's experiences.
A Chinese tourist visiting the expo praised the vibrant colors of Tunisian handicrafts, finding them visually appealing and distinctive. She noted that her visit to Tunisia, including Sidi Bou Said, allowed her to see similar products and appreciate the diversity of colors and beauty of these crafts. The tourist believed that incorporating these products into daily life could bring joy and comfort.
The third edition of the Articrea professional expo will continue until October 11, 2026, at the Kram Exhibition Center, open to visitors from 10 am to 7 pm. The event provides a platform for Tunisian artisans and enterprises to showcase their products, attract international buyers, and explore new export opportunities. Key points include:
Key points
- The expo attracted international buyers and foreign delegations to promote Tunisian handicrafts.
- Traditional craft exports from Tunisia reached nearly 85 million dinars by August 2026.
- The event fosters partnerships and explores new export opportunities for Tunisian artisans.
