GAN demands Textile and Clothing Development Council

By A Staff Reporter,Kathmandu, Aug. 27: The Garment Association of Nepal (GAN) has called for the establishment of a Textile and Clothing Development Council to support the country’s apparel industry and strengthen exports. 

The proposal was made during a discussion with the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supplies (MoICS) held in Kathmandu the other day. The discussion reviewed the current state of Nepal’s garment industry, its challenges and emerging opportunities, GAN said in a statement.

GAN highlighted the growing scrutiny of transshipment issues under United States customs regulations, describing it as a major challenge for Nepali garment exports. 

It said that a specialised council could provide structured support to the industry, helping it respond to market changes and seize opportunities in international trade.

Minister for Industry, Commerce and Supplies Damodar Bhandari said that preparations were underway to make the upcoming Trade and Investment Framework Agreement (TIFA) dialogue between Nepal and the United States more productive. 

According to him, the government was aware of the risks posed by transshipment concerns and was working to address them. The minister also emphasised the role of export-oriented industries, including garments, in creating employment, supporting economic growth and improving the trade balance.

Director General of the Department of Industry, Rajeshwar Gyawali, said that long-standing processes to certify consumption levels of raw materials used in garments had been completed. He assured continued government support to the exporters.

Participants of the meeting said that the government’s plans and commitment to exports had given them encouragement to push ahead with efforts to expand production and international trade.