Far-west Nepal's herbal potential remains untapped
Summary
Sudurpaschim has abundant medicinal herbs and the potential to earn billions from exports, but the province still lacks a herb processing centre and Ayurvedic medicine industry. Experts and officials say local processing, investment and clearer policies could keep more value in the province.
Key Points
- Sudurpaschim is estimated to be one of Nepal’s richest regions for medicinal herbs, with annual collection potential of about 6,271 metric tonnes.
- The province still lacks a herb processing centre and Ayurvedic medicine manufacturing industry, forcing it to export raw herbs and import expensive medicines.
- Officials and experts say local processing could multiply the value of herbs and reduce the large amount of money leaving the province each year.
- The provincial government says it is considering a feasibility study and possible investment in at least one herbal processing industry.
