LAKARCADE, Sri Lanka’s leading destination for authentic gifts and souvenirs, has achieved a significant international milestone with its official appointment as a National Entity Member of the World Crafts Council AISBL (WCC-International). The prestigious recognition marks an important step forward for Sri Lanka’s handicraft sector and reinforces the country’s growing presence within the global creative economy.

The membership elevation follows a comprehensive review conducted by the WCC AISBL Membership Sub-Committee and subsequent endorsement by the WCC AISBL Board. The appointment places LAKARCADE among an esteemed international network of craft practitioners, designers, cultural institutions and advocates committed to preserving, promoting and advancing traditional and contemporary crafts worldwide.

LAKARCADE Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director Anil Koswatte described the achievement as a landmark moment for both the organisation and Sri Lanka’s craft industry. He noted that the recognition strengthens LAKARCADE’s commitment to empowering artisan communities, preserving cultural heritage and ensuring that the exceptional craftsmanship of Sri Lanka’s rural artisans receives the international recognition it deserves.

WCC AISBL Deputy Secretary General and Treasurer Girija Sudhakaran stated that the application was approved following a rigorous evaluation process and highlighted LAKARCADE’s meaningful contribution to the dialogue between heritage, material culture and contemporary craft practices.

Through this membership, LAKARCADE will actively participate in international programmes aimed at preserving traditional craft techniques, promoting sustainable livelihoods for artisans and representing Sri Lanka at global forums, exhibitions and knowledge-sharing platforms.

The announcement follows LAKARCADE’s participation in the Second World Crafts Forum held in Kuwait City in February 2026 under the theme “Connecting the World, Shaping the Future”. The company also recently earned the prestigious Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Award, placing it among the top 10 per cent of attractions and hospitality-related businesses worldwide based on consistently outstanding visitor reviews.

The achievement further strengthens Sri Lanka’s position as a destination for authentic craftsmanship while creating new opportunities for local artisans to engage with international markets and audiences.