KATHMANDU: Prime Minister Balendra (Balen) Shah emphasized the government’s commitment to addressing industrialists’ concerns and facilitating the global expansion of Nepali goods during a nearly two-hour meeting with key export leaders.

Representatives from the carpet, plywood, pashmina, and dog chew sectors highlighted critical trade hurdles.

Balaram Gurung of Carpet Association raised concerns regarding new US certification regulations affecting exports—leading PM Shah to direct diplomatic outreach for a one-year grace period—along with requesting faster wool quarantine testing and a dedicated Carpet Development Board.

Similarly, Hom Prasad Ghimire of Plywood Association requested higher export duties on raw veneer to protect domestic production.

Dhan Prasad Lamichhane of Pashmina Association sought Forest Act amendments for sheep grazing alongside regional wool collection and processing facilities.

Likewise, Resham Bahadur Pokharel of Dog Chew Association asked for reclassifying dog chew as a ‘pet food’ industry and simplifying skimmed milk powder imports.

In response, Prime Minister Shah committed to prompt administrative action, legal revisions, and facilitating industrial growth across these key sectors.