KATHMANDU: The first National Mushroom Day was observed in Nepal today with the aim of promoting quality mushroom production, increasing domestic consumption, reducing imports, and encouraging exports by raising awareness about the importance of mushrooms.

The Day is being celebrated following a government decision made on December 26. Mushrooms contribute about 0.15 percent to the country’s agricultural gross domestic product and approximately 35,000 farmers are directly involved in mushroom farming. It has emerged as an important source of income for small- and medium-scale farmers.

According to the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development, Nepal is home to around 1,150 species of mushrooms. Among them, 147 species are edible, 70 have medicinal value, and about 100 species are poisonous.

In recent years, mushroom production has increased with support from the government and other concerned stakeholders.

Director General of the Department of Agriculture, Prakash Kumar Sanjel, said that during the fiscal year 2081 BS, Nepal imported 2,262 kilograms of fresh white button (Gobre) mushrooms worth Rs 671,000. During the same period, the country exported mushrooms worth Rs 10,117,198, with a total export volume of 17,198 kilograms. Recently, exports of dried mushrooms have also begun.

Mushroom production is considered faster than many other agricultural activities, as it can be carried out in a limited space using minimal agricultural tools. In Nepal, mushroom farming can be practiced throughout the year.

Nepal’s geographical and climatic diversity is highly favorable for year-round mushroom cultivation. Its commercial production is significant for strengthening the agricultural economy, creating employment opportunities, substituting imports, and promoting exports.

At present, mushroom farming has expanded to 70 districts across the country, with commercial production taking place in 40 districts. According to Santosh Karki, Chair of Mushroom Producers’ Association- Nepal, the total annual production and trade of various types of mushrooms nationwide is estimated at around Rs 20 billion.

He further added that research on the production technology of white button mushrooms in Nepal began in 2030–31 BS, following initial production and experimental studies.