Garment Association Nepal organized a discussion program at its Secretariat in New Baneshwor, Kathmandu, on “The Current Situation, Challenges, and Opportunities of Nepal’s Readymade Garment Sector” on September 23, 2025 (Bhadra 7, 2082) Saturday.
Welcoming the participants, the Association’s President, Mr. Pashupati Dev Pandey, expressed his delight in welcoming the Honorable Minister to the Secretariat. He highlighted that the potential transshipment issue arising from the U.S. customs policy poses a major challenge for Nepal’s garment exports, requiring careful attention and strategic handling. He also noted that with proper promotion and a clear international market strategy, Nepal could turn this situation into an opportunity. Furthermore, he emphasized the need to establish a separate Textile and Clothing Development Council to promote the textile and garment industry in Nepal.
The Chief Guest, Honorable Minister for Industry, Commerce, and Supplies, Mr. Damodar Bhandari, stated that preparations are underway to make the upcoming Trade and Investment Framework Agreement (TIFA) talks between Nepal and the United States productive. He mentioned that coordination with the concerned agencies is ongoing and warned that, in the case of transshipment, customs duties could rise—hence, vigilance is crucial. He also shared the government’s serious concern on the matter, emphasizing that the production and export of readymade garments and other export-oriented goods play a vital role in the country’s economic development, employment generation, and export promotion.
The event was attended by former presidents of the Association, presidents of various commodity associations, and members of the Garment Association Nepal. The program was conducted by Mr. Bhim Kumar Giri, General Secretary of the Association.
