| Abstract: | Abstract African countries face opportunities for the export of cultural products. Demand for these products has increased in recent years and has found distribution outlets via American and European mass retailers. The potential for African countries to exploit demand for locally produced crafts and cultural products depends critically on their ability to anticipate and respond to the market. This paper compares and contrasts craft production in Kenya and in Ghana in order to analyze the impact of culture on the countries' ability to exploit export opportunities. Key distinctions are raised in the areas of internally focused versus externally focused production and between products that are subject to local control in their production versus those that are not. Issues of authenticity versus representativeness are also raised relative to demand for craft products. |
