Previously, on April 9, 2024, the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism issued Decision No 952/QĐ-BVHTTDL, announcing the list of national intangible cultural heritage, which included the art of costume decoration of the Lao people in Điện Biên and Điện Biên Đông districts.

This decision serves as a scientific and legal foundation, emphasising the Government’s commitment to honouring cultural heritage while also promoting, preserving and integrating intangible cultural heritage with local socio-economic development.

In recent years, Điện Biên and Điện Biên Đông districts have conducted training courses aimed at preserving and promoting the traditional costumes of many ethnic groups in the region. These efforts include specialised classes focused on teaching the techniques, skills, and processes involved in decorating the traditional costumes of the Lao people.

Additionally, initiatives have been taken to enhance trade promotion, brand development, and market expansion for products made from the Lao ethnic group's brocade weaving.

Products such as skirts, blouses, handbags, and scarves have been showcased, introduced, and sold at trade fairs and exhibitions, and have also been made available on e-commerce platforms and social media, reaching a wider audience. The local authorities have organised contests for making traditional clothing, embroidering, and weaving brocade patterns, as well as fashion shows to highlight the beauty and cultural significance of traditional Lao attire.

Currently, Điện Biên Province is home to 41 artisans who have been awarded the title “Distinguished Artisan” by the President for their contributions to the field of intangible cultural heritage, including two Lao artisans.

The province has 20 intangible cultural heritage elements recognised on the national list, with the Lao ethnic group contributing three, including the art of costume decoration, water-splashing festival, and folk dance.