Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, April 9. A new online
marketplace in Turkmenistan, supported by the EBRD, is enabling
local artisans to showcase and sell their traditional crafts to a
global audience, Trend reports.
Led by Tajigul Kurbanova, the platform empowers women, preserves
Turkmen heritage, and creates new economic opportunities for
artisans across the country.
After catching the creative bug at a Japanese expo, Tajigul dove
headfirst into the world of traditional arts, trying her hand at
everything from drawing to crafting ethnic jewelry. This lit a fire
under her vision to create a community that would not only breathe
new life into Turkmen handicrafts but also open doors for women in
both urban and rural areas to earn a living.
Recognizing that traditional sales channels were inadequate for
growth, Tajigul partnered with fellow entrepreneurs to create an
online marketplace specifically for Turkmen artisans. Supported by
the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and the
European Union, the platform allows local artisans to reach broader
local and international markets.
Launched in September 2024, the online marketplace offers
artisans a chance to create personal pages showcasing detailed
product descriptions and the stories behind their crafts. The
platform’s goal is to increase sales, preserve cultural heritage,
and empower artisans by combining traditional craftsmanship with
modern e-commerce technology.
Tajigul’s project marks a pivotal moment for Turkmenistan’s
handicraft industry, demonstrating how digital platforms can
preserve cultural traditions while broadening their global
reach.
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