Abstract:

The handicrafts elaborate in Ráquira Colombia are works of art admired throughout the world that attract a large number of tourists, contributing to the income and economic growth of the town, since the main economic activities of the municipality are handicrafts and tourism. These activities are part of the orange economy which have been supported by the national government through economic resources, training, tax benefits, use of the “Crea Colombia” distinctive seal, among others. Through a study with a mixed descriptive approach and the application of surveys to the Ráquira's artisans, it was possible to identify that very few of them know these benefits (10%) and that none of them have accessed any type of benefit from the orange law program regulated by law 1834 of 2017. This study also showed that during the pandemic they were greatly affected by the closures and sanitary measures, where 5% said they had maintained their income and the remaining 95% had a decrease and loss of income. When interviewing them, it was identified that they see the benefits of the orange economy as an opportunity to boost their economic activity after the crisis that occurred between 2020 and 2021 with COVID-19.