Branding; a key to tourism development in Semnan Province
The deputy head of Semnan Province’s Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts Organization has emphasized the need to develop the tourism industry by focusing more on branding across various sectors, including handicrafts.
Samaneh Soltani, speaking to ISNA, referred to the upcoming national gathering of eco-lodge operators in Qaleh Bala village of Shahrud, describing it as an opportunity. She noted that Qaleh Bala, a designated tourism target village, is a well-known name in the tourism sector both nationally and province-wide.
Soltani identified branding, marketing, and market development as serious needs for the trade sector, particularly in handicrafts. “Unfortunately, these areas have received insufficient attention in our country, which has caused economic difficulties for those involved in this field. However, in recent years, significant steps have been taken that could help revive these industries nationwide,” she said.
Highlighting the high tourism capacity of the picturesque village of Qaleh Bala, Soltani discussed the process of its global registration. “Having this village listed among internationally targeted tourism destinations can greatly enhance its recognition,” she added.
She referred to efforts made to support the village’s global registration as one of eight villages nominated by Iran. “To develop tourism in the province, we need branding — both in handicrafts and in cultural heritage and tourism sectors,” she stated.
Soltani described cultural heritage, tourism, and handicrafts as three interconnected circles, noting that growth in any of these sectors can further develop this lucrative industry in the province.
She also noted that holding handicraft exhibitions is a key policy of the department year-round. Over the past year, 52 handicraft exhibitions have been organized by her office in various parts of the province and country.
Soltani announced plans to establish a handicraft house in the village, which is on the verge of global registration. “Fortunately, the people of this village have long paid special attention to various tourism sectors, including handicrafts. Some local accommodations and eco-lodges have historically made efforts in this area, as life in this region has always been intertwined with handicrafts,” she explained.
She also reported that a handicraft exhibition will be held on the sidelines of the national eco-lodge operators’ gathering in Qaleh Bala. “Showcasing local products and handicrafts from the region at this exhibition can help further introduce and promote the village,” she added.
Soltani assessed the holding of such exhibitions as effective in improving the tourism economy and emphasized that the products displayed should match consumer tastes and needs.