Lacquerware FAQ
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Lacqureware Products

1. Why should we buy lacquerware products from Myanmar?
Producers in Myanmar are highly experienced in co-creation. We have been developing products together with our international buyers for more than 20 years. In Myanmar’s lacquerware sector, international buyers buy directly from local businesses that hire local artists and craftsmen from rural communities. This means that the local communities directly benefit from your orders.

Sector

2. What does MLA do?

MLA is the leading organisation in Myanmar lacquerware sector. It cooperates with Myanmar Lacquerware Technology College (LTC) and other international organisations. MLA participates in cultural and technical exchange programs, lacquer production seminars, international craft exhibitions, and symposiums on lacquer arts and crafts from around the world. MLA also cooperates with LTC to provide trainings to the new generations of local workforce and potential artisans in order to sustain traditional craftsmanship.

3. What kind of products do MLA members make?

In our industry, local lacquerware artisans and craftsman produce entirely handmade authentic products for home decoration and hotel projects, such as furniture, tableware, decoration, and customised items. Our products are 100% biodegradable.

4. What is unique/special about Myanmar products?

Myanmar lacquerware is highly durable and renowned for its excellent quality, due to the high viscosity of thitsi (lacquer sap). The long curing process further ensures top-grade products. Raw materials such as lacquer tree sap, wood and bamboo are 100% natural and locally sourced in Myanmar. Because of this, Myanmar lacquerware is environmentally friendly and biodegradable.

5. What kind of services does MLA offer to international buyers?
Potential buyers can ask the MLA team to take them on a virtual tour at selected workshops, before making a buying decision. MLA can recommend and introduce suitable and reputable producers based on buyers’ requirements.
6. How many companies does MLA represent?

There are 76 companies specialised in the production of lacquerware. All companies are registered under the Directorate of Investment and Company Administration (DICA) and Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), Ministry of Industries.

7. Where are the MLA members’ companies located?

Bagan is the main lacquerware production place in Myanmar, at the heart of the country. Most companies have their own workshops in the Bagan region.

8. What are the common production lead times?

The production lead time varies between 12 to 24 weeks depending on product finishing.