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Tourism gains from OTOP fallout We believe you are aware of the government-supported "One Tambon, One Product" scheme which is better known by its acronym OTOP. If you don't, OTOP seeks to encourage growth of cottage industries through the production of quality products utilising indigenously developed skills and give them international recognition. Every tambon or district is encouraged to develop products that reflect an expertise that's unique to the district or that part of the country.OTOP is one of the success stories of this administration because it has helped create new jobs and distribute income to the rural masses and, at the same time, raised new awareness about Thai products overseas. The scheme has also contributed to the growth of the tourism industry in Thailand . Tourists hoping to take home quality Thai handicraft, souvenirs, or other products can rely on the OTOP tag for it's a guarantee of excellence. OTOP products carry three, four and five-star ratings, depending on the workmanship. And the good news is that they are all now available under one roof so tourists don't need to travel the length and breath of the country to buy them. The Pratunam Centre on Ratchaparob Road in Bangkok features some 300 booths on its ground and first floors selling award-winning OTOP products ranging home decor items, handicrafts, souvenirs and furniture to handbags, clothes, leather goods, porcelain, ceramics and so forth. The centre is open every day from 10am-8pm. For more details, call 02-309-8888. Bangkok Post August 2005 www.bangkokpost.com |