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The craft industry:
the backbone
of our national economy
The dynamic craft industry is of vital importance to
the Luxembourg economy. It covers a wide range
of activities from the construction sector to food
industry, from artistic and creative craftsmanship to
hi-tech professions.
Luxembourg crafts sector has been growing steadily:
nearly 6 900 companies now employ over 80 000
people. With more than 20% of the active population
working in this area, the crafts industry has become
the biggest employer in Luxembourg. In the Grand
Duchy, as well as in many other European countries,
the craft industry is the backbone of the national
economy.
The Luxembourg craft sector covers a wide range
of cultural and creative industry activities, and
thus deserves full appreciation and recognition.
The exhibition “De Mains de Maître” tremendously
enhances the visibility of artistic and high quality
craftsmanship, both in the Grand Duchy as well as
across other European countries.
In order to further promote creative industries,
a cluster is being set up in Luxembourg bringing
together private and public players in this area. Aimed
at professionals, the cluster will serve as a platform to
provide support for the economic development of the
sector, covering activities ranging from architecture,
cinematography, design, fashion to all types of crafts
and art. In addition to the notable direct economic
value they produce, creative industries play an
important role in boosting innovation, through the
products and services they provide.
I wish to express my deepest gratitude to Their
Royal Highnesses for the initiative of organizing this
exhibition to highlight the full potential of the cultural
and creative industries, thus enhancing, in particular,
local skills in small and medium sized companies within
the craft sector.
Francine Closener
Secretary of State for the Economy