Nepal Aims to Boost Cotton Production as Hetauda Textile Industry Resumes

The Nepalese government has announced plans to increase domestic cotton production as the Hetauda Textile Industry resumes operations. The Ministry of Industry, Commerce, and Supplies has called on private sector investors to invest in cotton farming, aiming to reduce the country’s reliance on imported cotton.

According to the ministry, the goal is to ensure a steady supply of raw materials for the textile industry, which currently relies heavily on imported cotton. Industry Minister Gauri Kumari Yadav met with Agriculture Minister Gita Chaudhary to discuss the expansion of cotton farming in Nepal.

Chaudhary pointed out that districts such as Dang, Banke, and Bardiya have suitable environments for cotton farming. While Nepal has the potential for cotton production, the lack of large-scale commercial farming has forced industries to rely on foreign imports.

The government hopes that by promoting cotton production alongside the textile industry, it can reduce imports, create jobs, and increase farmers’ income. Meanwhile, the long-dormant Butwal Yarn Factory is also set to resume operations, with the process of evaluating assets and liabilities nearing completion, according to Jitendra Basnet, Director-General of the Department of Industry.

The government aims to reduce foreign cotton imports, increase domestic production, and create employment opportunities through the expansion of cotton farming.