KATHMANDU: Prime Minister (PM) Balendra Shah has pledged government support to promote the export of domestically produced footwear and strengthen Nepal’s footwear industry.
During a meeting with office-bearers and members of the Footwear Manufacturers Association of Nepal (FMAN) at the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers on Friday, Prime Minister Shah said the government would take necessary measures to encourage import substitution, boost exports, and create employment opportunities in the sector.
He said skill-based training related to footwear production would be conducted in coordination with all three tiers of government, while the private sector would be encouraged to expand the production, promotion, and marketing of Nepali footwear.
The prime minister also said the government would strengthen monitoring and record-keeping of raw material imports based on the production capacity of domestic industries to ensure effective implementation of industrial policies.
During the meeting, FMAN representatives urged the government to curb illegal smuggling through border points, bring imported products entering the market outside the tax system under the legal framework, prevent the import of substandard footwear and slippers, and make quality testing mandatory for imported footwear products.
The Association also assured the prime minister that Nepal’s footwear industry has the capacity to operate at full production if provided with supportive government policies, adequate market protection, and an industry-friendly business environment.
The meeting was attended by FMAN President Suraj Banjade, immediate past president Rudra Neupane, General Secretary Nirmal Bhattarai, advisor Kalidas Gautam, and association member as well as House of Representatives member Bidushi Rana, among others.
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