This chapter explores the intricate link between crafts and job creation within the creative industries. Using a holistic approach, it combines legislative analysis, educational exploration and insights from crafts chambers to understand how crafts contribute to tourism job growth. The study focuses on Bulgaria, assessing the state of craft education and training for the first time. It reviews the regulatory framework and compares skilled crafts with the list of professions for vocational education and training. Employment outcomes for graduates from vocational schools, specialized secondary schools and higher education are compared with those trained under the Skilled Crafts Act. The research identifies significant gaps in craft education, largely due to undervaluation in policy and the flawed replication of international regulatory models without considering Bulgarian experience. Key findings highlight the potential of improving craft education to significantly boost tourism job growth. © CAB International 2025. All rights reserved.
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