The measure is written in a decree-law published today in Diário da República, and effective as of June 8, which creates the Saber Fazer Association and defines a programme to recognise and defend traditional arts and crafts, as well as developing artisanal production in a sustainable way.

This “Saber-Fazer” programme contains the “national strategy for traditional arts and crafts for the years 2021-2024 and establishes measures for the safeguarding, recognition and sustainable development of artisanal production”, based on “three main axes: transversality, territoriality and technology”.

In addition to coordinating the measures of the “Saber-Fazer” programme, the association is also responsible for mediating relations between entities and agents in the field, supporting the creation of a technological knowledge and a centre for research, technological development and the learning of craft techniques.

Despite the importance of this sector being recognised over the years, the Government considered it “of the greatest importance to reinforce its recognition” due to the potential it has for territories, for the economy and for culture in contemporary societies.

The founding public members of the Saber Fazer Association are the State, through its Culture department, the Portuguese Tourism Institute, the Agency for Competitiveness and Innovation (IAPMEI), the Employment and Vocational Training Institute (IEFP), the Portuguese Agency for the Environment, the National Institute of Agrarian and Veterinary Research, and any other legal persons with relevant activity in the promotion of arts and crafts may also be admitted as members.