Nicaragua › US Market Study for Nicaragua Handicraft

Asociación de Productores y Exportadores de Nicaragua (APEN) contracted us to complete a market study of the handicraft sector in Nicaragua. The artisan-based home décor and fashion accessories industry showed significant international growth potential for young craft producers and entrepreneurs, particularly women. A study of the Nicaraguan craft market highlighted the need for a resilient value chain, including organized artisan groups, motivated designers, and reliable raw materials supply. The study emphasized that successful global market entry would require extensive training in business skills, design innovation, and buyer linkages.

Key Achievements:  

• Conducted a comprehensive study on the international market potential for Nicaraguan craft, focusing on global demand and market functions.

• Identified the need for a strong, resilient value chain, including organized artisan groups and reliable raw materials supply.

• Highlighted the importance of having motivated young product designers dedicated to continuous design innovation in the artisan sector.

• Emphasized the necessity for training and support for exporters to efficiently execute export procedures.

• Recognized the need for further training in business skills, design innovation, and buyer linkages to successfully enter the global marketplace.

Donor: Asociación de Productores y Exportadores de Nicaragua

Start Date: May 2019

End Date: August 2019