Shoe Industry Dialogue with Rudra Neupane on 'Business Talk'
Summary
Nepal’s shoe and slipper industry says it is moving toward self-reliance, with exports rising and domestic products meeting most local demand. Industry leaders are urging stronger action against smuggling, border disruptions, and procurement barriers to help factories run at full capacity.
Key Points
- Nepal’s shoe and slipper sector says it now meets more than 80 percent of domestic demand and exported 6 million pairs last year, with a target of 10 million this year.
- Former Shoe Manufacturers Association president Rudra Neupane says the industry has capacity to produce 160 million pairs annually but is operating at only 45–50 percent because of labor shortages.
- The industry wants the government to curb smuggling, buy shoes for public offices and security forces from domestic producers, and set up training centers for skilled workers.
- Neupane says border closures, high transport costs, and tender specifications in government procurement are making Nepali shoes less competitive.
