April 19: Nepal Chamber of Commerce (NCC) and the Federation of Handicraft Associations of Nepal (FHAN) have decided to collaborate with each other for the exports of handicraft items. NCC and FHAN signed an agreement in this regard on Monday. The two parties decided to collaborate with each other in a bid to reduce the country’s trade deficit by promoting export of handicraft items.

NCC and FHAN decided to cooperate with each other to promote exports stating that handicraft materials have played an important role in reducing trade deficit and also established Nepal's identity in the international market.

NCC Chairman Rajendra Malla said that they would work hand in hand with the FHAN to facilitate the export of handicraft items and to remove the problems in customs clearance.

Speaking at a program organized at the NCC building at Jamal, Kathmandu to welcome the officials of the federation, Chairman Malla said that he will do his best ensure the entry of Nepali handicraft products in international exhibitions

Malla said, “Export promotion of handicrafts is the strongest option right now to reduce the huge trade deficit.” He said that the handicraft industry has been creating employment opportunities on a large scale and has been helping in the preservation and promotion of culture through skills and arts.

“The handicraft industry has not only promoted and protected indigenous skills but also helped establish cultural identity,” he added.    

According to the NCC, Nepali handicrafts are exported to the United States, European countries, Japan, China, India, Korea and other Asian countries. Malla said that high financial benefits can be reaped if the state provides support with concessions. He said that he would take initiative to facilitate customs clearance for the export of handicraft items, provide relief to businessmen and other policy reforms.

President of FHAN, Prachanda Shakya said that there are various policy issues including customs clearance for the export of handicrafts produced by them. He complained that even though the government provided relief to the exporting businessmen, the genuine businessmen are still having a hard time.

Shakya requested the NCC to facilitate exports. In response, Malla said that he would do his best to promote handicraft exports. An agreement was reached between the NCC and the FHAN to take initiative with the government for policy reforms before the next budget.