GI tags boost Keralam handloom identity, but economic gains remain uneven: Study

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GI registration has strengthened the identity and recognition of Keralam’s traditional handloom products, but has not translated into uniform economic benefits across weaving clusters, according to an independent study.

The study, led by Praveen Raj RS, Sravanth T, Valanrebinro G, Mohan B and Vismitha V M, examined four GI-tagged products – Balaramapuram Sarees and Fine Cotton Fabrics, Kasargode Sarees, Kuthampully Sarees, and Chendamangalam Dhoties and Set Mundu.

While Geographical Indication registration enhanced product identity, legal protection and cultural recognition, the study found considerable variations in economic performance, employment generation, sales and profitability among the selected weaving clusters.

The researchers said GI registration alone could not ensure the sector’s sustainable economic development.

The study identified the ageing artisan population and labour shortage as major concerns. The physically demanding nature of weaving, relatively low earnings and irregular employment opportunities have discouraged younger people from taking up the profession, posing a threat to the continuity of traditional weaving skills.

The widespread availability of low-cost powerloom products that closely imitate traditional handloom fabrics was another major challenge, the study said.

Such machine-made products are sold at substantially lower prices, reducing the market share of and premium commanded by genuine GI products. Inadequate enforcement of GI regulations and limited consumer awareness of authentic GI labels have further aggravated the problem, it said.

Rising prices of cotton yarn and other raw materials have also increased production costs.

The researchers said many producers operating on narrow profit margins were unable to pass on these additional costs to consumers without affecting demand, resulting in declining profitability.

Marketing was another major limitation affecting the sector, the study found.

Many producers continue to depend on traditional channels and cooperative outlets, with limited access to digital platforms, national retail chains and international markets.

The absence of effective branding, traceability and authentication systems also makes it difficult for genuine producers to command premium prices, the study said.

The researchers recommended greater consumer awareness of GI certification, stronger branding, stricter enforcement against counterfeit products and digital traceability through QR codes or authentication numbers.

The study suggested strengthening cooperative societies and producer organisations, ensuring stable procurement of raw materials and financial support, diversifying products and encouraging design innovation, as well as improving access to digital marketing and e-commerce platforms.

It recommended programmes to attract younger people to weaving, greater integration of GI handlooms with tourism, regular monitoring of the sector and better coordination among government agencies and other stakeholders.

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