Pa Then brocade reaches global market

The traditional brocade weaving craft of the Pa Then ethnic group in Tan Trinh commune is gradually "taking off" into the international market.

Ms. Tai Thi Mai (left), Director of Pa Then Tan Bac Brocade Cooperative, inspects brocade weaving products.

More than a craft, brocade weaving is a cherished cultural heritage deeply woven into the spiritual life of the Pa Then people. Girls begin learning to spin and weave brocade at a young age, with the skills passed down through generations in a spirit of pride and devotion.

Red, the colour of fire, faith, and sacredness, serves as the signature hue in Pa Then brocade. Each pattern tells a story, reflecting the people’s beliefs, traditions, and connection to nature.

Since its establishment in 2017, the Pa Then Tan Bac Brocade Cooperative has played a vital role in reviving and promoting traditional weaving. With support from the government and various organizations, the cooperative has received machinery, technical training, and trade promotion assistance.

Thanks to a project supported by Good Neighbors International, the cooperative secured an export order of 1,000 brocade items to South Korea this year, including fragrant keychains and cardholders. The cooperative also harnesses social media platforms like Zalo and Facebook to livestream its products, drawing interest from both local buyers and international tourists, especially those from Japan, the UK, and the US.

Ms. Tai Thi Mai, Director of the Pa Then Tan Bac Brocade Cooperative, emphasized that each product serves as a “cultural ambassador,” which is why the cooperative prioritizes design, quality, and origin traceability. Offerings have become more diverse, with prices starting at VND25,000 for small souvenirs and going up to VND5 million for a full set of women’s clothing.

Efforts by the local government to integrate brocade weaving with community tourism, OCOP initiatives, and e-commerce are opening new pathways for growth. These coordinated strategies not only help preserve the cultural essence of the Pa Then people but also provide a foundation for long-term economic development.

Moc Lan