The Wire

The 53 ethnic minority peoples of Vietnam once identified themselves through unique handmade costumes and crafts. But interest in traditional weaving, embroidery, and dyeing techniques has dwindled as villagers aspire to western consumer goods and fashions. Tourism and trade bring opportunities to revive and revitalize craft in ethnic minority communities. But how much do minority peoples profit from travellers’ undoubted interest in their cultures? This week, The Wire visits Ha Noi to talk fair trade.