NCC, FHAN to work together to promote handicraft export

KATHMANDU: Nepal Chamber of Commerce (NCC) and Federation of Handicraft Associations of Nepal (FHAN) decided to work together to promote the export of handicraft items. NCC and FHAN decided to cooperate in the export of handicraft items citing that the export of such items has played an important role in reducing trade deficit and gaining the country's international recognition. NCC President Rajendra Malla said that they would work hand in hand with FHAN to facilitate the export of handicrafts, cooperate in raw materials and remove the complexities seen in the customs. At a programme organised to welcome the newly elected executive committee members of FHAN, at Chambar Bhawan in Jamal on Monday, Malla said that he would do his best to participate in the international exhibition and fair of handicraft items of Nepal. He said, "The only way to reduce the trade deficit at present is by promoting the export of handicrafts by internationalising them." The handicraft industry has been creating employment and has been helping in the preservation and promotion of culture through skills and arts, said Malla. Stating that Nepali handicrafts items are being exported to the United States, most of the European countries, Japan, China, India, Korea and other Asian countries, Malla said that a lot of financial benefits could be reaped if concessions were received from the state. Chairman Malla said that he would take initiative for customs facilitation, relief to businesspersons and other policy reforms in the export of handicraft items. FHAN President Prachanda Shakya said that there were various issues with the export of handicrafts. Shakya complained that even though the government provided relief to the exporters, the real businesspersons could not get it. Shakya urged the NCC to facilitate exports. In response, NCC President Malla said that he would do his best to promote the export of handicraft items. An agreement has also been reached between the NCC and FHAN to take initiative to hold discussion with the government for policy reforms before the next budget. READ ALSO:

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