Women Entrepreneurship and Empowerment: Navigating the Challenges of Karen and Lua Hill Tribe Women in Northern Thailand

Summary This case study investigates the entrepreneurial challenges faced by Karen and Lua hill tribe women in northern Thailand, focusing on their production and commercialisation of traditional handicrafts. The main challenges identified in our research include geographical isolation, limited access to capital, and insufficient marketing expertise. While government initiatives provide support for design, production, and marketing processes, these efforts fail to adequately address the unique needs of hill tribe women. Seasonal agricultural priorities, along with a dependence on traditional crafts, further restrict their ability to diversify their products in response to fluctuating market trends. Other challenges include educational barriers, health and well-being concerns and economic instability, complicated by potential risks of cultural commodification as artisans struggle to balance authenticity with market demands. To overcome these obstacles, there is a need for tailored interventions such as cooperative networks, capacity-building programs, and marketing strategies. These solutions aim to bridge the gaps between tradition and modernity, ensuring indigenous handicrafts are both preserved and economically sustainable while also strengthening community-based ethnic tourism. Enhancing resilience and empowering women not only fosters inclusivity but also offers a roadmap for sustainable entrepreneurship in marginalised communities. Information © The Authors 2025