Prime Minister Balen Shah Engages with Private Sector on Footwear Industry Challenges
Summary
Prime Minister Balen Shah held discussions with the Manufacturers Association of Nepal to address challenges faced by the domestic footwear industry, including smuggling and lack of skilled manpower, and committed to policy reforms and support for import substitution and export promotion.
Key Points
- Prime Minister Balen Shah has engaged in discussions with private sector representatives after the first 100 days of his premiership.
- He committed to taking concrete policy and institutional steps to promote domestic footwear products and control smuggling through a special task force.
- The government plans to implement mandatory quality testing and clearer labeling for imported shoes and slippers.
- A skill-based training program will be conducted to improve manpower skills, and concessions in tax and electricity will be considered to encourage exports.
