Quintana Roo Artisans Win Dedicated Law to Protect and Promote Their Craft

Cancún, Quintana Roo — Artisans in Quintana Roo are gaining a more defined place in the state’s cultural and tourism policies after lawmakers approved dedicated legislation to promote and protect their work.

State congresswoman Tepí Gutiérrez said the new law marks a shift in how the government addresses the needs of artisans, whose activity had for years been regulated only under cultural legislation. The recently approved measure establishes a specific framework for promoting and protecting the craft.

Gutiérrez said the legislative effort aims to benefit visitors while ensuring that the economic gains from tourism also reach Quintana Roo residents.

She argued that artisanship is closely tied to tourism because pieces made by local creators form part of the identity the state presents to domestic and international visitors. Protecting that work, she added, is not only about marketing it but also about safeguarding identity and intellectual property and recognizing artistic creation.

From cultural law to a dedicated framework

The congresswoman said the new legislation changes the way officials approach the sector. Previously, the issue was covered by the state’s Culture Law; now a separate framework exists for its promotion and protection.

Gutiérrez described artisans as part of Quintana Roo’s history and identity, noting that they transmit cultural elements through the pieces they produce. She said institutional support should no longer be limited to inviting them to events or exhibitions, and should instead translate into programs and resources that strengthen their work.

She said public policies and agency budgets already include training, equipment and other programs for the sector.

According to Gutiérrez, the change allows artisans to take a more active role in public decisions and ensures their activity is treated as part of the cultural offering Quintana Roo projects to the tourism market.

She said the goal is for artisan expression to be seen not merely as merchandise for visitors, but as a manifestation of the state’s identity that requires protection and the conditions to keep developing.

Gutiérrez also said Quintana Roo has talent in several tourism-related fields, and that the annual recognition tied to World Tourism Day should extend to different areas, including academia.