Himal Press 
KATHMANDU: Pashmina entrepreneurs have urged the government to support them in marketing their products in the international market.
Speaking to Himal Press on the sidelines of the Pashmina International Exhibition, Dhan Prasad Lamichhane, president of the Nepal Pashmina Industries Association (NPIA), said Nepal exports over Rs 5.5 billion worth of pashmina products annually. “This industry can expand further with the government’s support. However, pashmina entrepreneurs aren’t even able to avail themselves of concessional loans announced by the state,” Lamichhane said.
The exhibition showcases the complete production process of pashmina fiber – from Chyangra goats to finished pashmina products. It also features fashion shows as well as over 50 varieties of pure Nepali pashmina products.
While domestic pashmina production is strong, Lamichhane highlighted the need for government support to expand into foreign markets to demonstrate a ‘farm to fiber, fiber to fashion’ approach.
The exhibition, which will run from January 23 to 25 at the Bhrikuti Mandap Exhibition Hall, features over 100 stalls showcasing Nepali pashmina products. The organizers are expecting more than 70,000 visitors during the three-day event.
Inaugurating the festival, Minister for Industry, Commerce and Supplies, Damodar Bhandari, said that the government would extend all possible support to promote the export of pashmina products. “Chyangra pashmina products are one of Nepal’s key export commodities. The government will invest in infrastructure development and capacity enhancement programs for domestic producers,” he added.
Nitya Traditional Pvt. Ltd., one of the participating companies, has been producing pashmina products for 30 years. It has been exporting its products to over 22 countries, recording an annual turnover of Rs 40–50 million. “We are doing everything we can from our side. But politicians have vested interests. That is why we are not getting the support we expect from the government,” said Basanta Bahadur Maharjan, promoter of the company.
Similarly, Suprabha Shrestha, who produces children’s clothing from pashmina fiber, criticized the government’s lack of support for marketing Nepali pashmina products. “Our monthly sales are around Rs 300,000–500,000. We have not received any support from the government,” she added.
Suman Neupane, marketing manager of Udhyami Ghar, also accused the government of prioritizing foreign imports over domestic production. “It is high time the government made the use of Nepali products mandatory,” he said, adding that the government collects taxes from businesses but does nothing to promote Nepali products in the international market.
Udhyami Ghar has been exporting its products to countries like India, China, the US, Canada, and various European nations. It currently employs 25 people.
