FONART Opens Stores in Cozumel & Mahahual for Local Artisans

Quintana Roo, Mexico — The National Fund for the Promotion of Handicrafts (FONART) will open two new stores in the ports of Cozumel and Mahahual, providing a platform for Quintana Roo’s artisans to showcase their work to international tourists and online buyers. The initiative aims to boost local craftsmanship, preserve ancestral techniques, and promote responsible consumption of handmade goods.

Expanding Artisan Markets in Key Tourist Hubs

Marina Núñez Bespalova, Undersecretary of Cultural Development at the federal Ministry of Culture, explained that the stores are part of a broader strategy to establish five new retail locations outside Mexico City. The project includes collaborations with the states of Quintana Roo, Baja California, Chiapas, Yucatán, and Jalisco.

The stores in Cozumel and Mahahual, along with additional locations in Puerto Vallarta and Ensenada, will cater to a diverse clientele, including cruise ship tourists, domestic visitors, and online shoppers. Products will range from textiles and jewelry to wood carvings and ceramics, all crafted by Quintana Roo artisans.

Government Support for Cultural Preservation

Quintana Roo Governor Mara Lezama welcomed the announcement, emphasizing the state’s commitment to advancing art, culture, and community well-being.

“We are bringing the talent of our artisans to tourist ports, cruise ships, and digital platforms,” Lezama stated.

The initiative is expected to generate employment, safeguard traditional craftsmanship, and expand market access for local artisans.