"But in term of volumes the painting exports declined 22,21 percent form 3,296 to 2,564 psc," Bali Regional Government Spokesman I Ketut Teneng said here on Wedneday.
He said that the painting exports were based on data in Bali trade and industry office only.
Many of Balinese artists` canvas products were purchased directly by foreign tourists who came to Bali for holidaying, he said.
"They came to Bali for holidaying and purchased paintings and arts collections directly so that they were not recorded officially," he said.
A total of 2.57 foreign tourists visited Bali in 2010.
Ketut also said that besides paintings, Bali also recorded in an increase in its ceramic exports.
The Value of Bali`s ceramic exports in the first quarter of 2011 was recorded at US$909,732 or an increase by 129.27 compared with that in the corresponding period a year earlier which was US$396,799.
"But in term of volumes Bali`s ceramic exports dropped 21,22 percent from 248,391 psc to 196,691 pcs," I Ketut Teneng said.
He said that Bali`s ceramic products with different designs and ornaments had enough competitive edge and were liked by consumers in the international markets.
The Bali ceramic export items vary, including unique household ahd furniture ornaments.
He said that Bali`s exports of plaited handicraft products also increased by 120.92 percent. They were recorded at 875,979.72 US dollars in the January-April 2011 period and increased by 120.92 pct compared to last year`s only 395,517.81 US dollars in the same period.
"The foreign exchange revenue was for the shipment of 645,892 peaces of handicraft articles in those four months, up by 59.94 pct compared to the only 403,823 pieces in last year`s same period," I Ketut Teneng said.
He said the significant increase in terms of volume and market value, and the improvement of creativity of the handicraft workers, with their various unique and interesting designs had attracted foreign consumers.(*)
A014/HAJM
Editor: Jafar M Sidik
Copyright © ANTARA 2011
