Relación entre el comercio de artesanías y el sector turístico en Imbabura-Ecuador: consideración desde la planificación y promoción institucional

Abstract

In a context of growing interest in the relationship between the traditional crafts sector and tourism, theobjective of this research work is to know the role that has been given to the trade of local crafts in theplanning, management and promotion of tourism in Ecuador and, particularly, in the province of Imbabura,where the crafts sector has special relevance due to its historical roots. To do this, the recent evolution of thecraftssector in Ecuador and itsrelationship with tourism is addressed. A review is carried out - at the national,provincial and cantonal levels - of the regulations, plans and institutional strategies to develop the relevancegiven to the craft trade in tourism planning. The main finding stands out that, although visibility andpreponderance has been given to the craft trade from the institutional organization, as a relevant axis for thedevelopment of tourism in Ecuador and Imbabura, few specific institutional actions and activities have beenimplemented.