Submit your Article

Nepal, with its breathtaking landscapes and traditions, holds a treasure trove of natural and cultural assets. From luxurious pashmina shawls and hand-knotted carpets to organic teas, medicinal herbs, and unique artisanal crafts, the country offers products that could easily find a place in global markets. Yet, despite this richness, Nepal’s footprint in international trade remains small. This paradox raises questions: Why is a country so rich in export-worthy goods struggling to make its mark globally? And what can be done to unlock Nepal’s true potential in the world economy?  

A powerful example lies in Chiraito (Swertia chirayita), a native medicinal herb that blooms in Nepal’s high hills and alpine regions. With growing awareness and demand for natural remedies and wellness products in today’s world, Chiraito has much to offer as a flagship in herbal export for Nepal. It perfectly illustrates both the potential and the drawbacks of Nepal’s export landscape. Nepal has the resources, the traditional knowledge, and the market interest, however due to lack of infrastructure, institutional support, and strategic direction to scale production, Nepal struggles to meet the global standards. 

Let’s look closer at Nepal’s broader export potential, using Chiraito as a case study. It explores the systematic barriers that hinder the progress and offers actionable strategies to help Nepal with its natural wealth to the world. At the same time, it also secures sustainable economic and social benefits. 

Nepal produces high quality teas, essential oils, handmade paper, wool products, and herbal medicines, many of which are identified as organic, sustainable, and culturally unique. These features are well aligned with global trends favoring ethical and wellness focused products. 

Despite having high potential for the export, Nepal has a negative trade balance due to significantly higher import than export by approximately $12m as per World Integrated Trade Solution 2023.

Chiraito (Swertia Chirayita) is usually found on hill slopes in sub-tropical to temperate zones throughout Nepal between altitudes of 1,200-3,000 meters. It has been reported to be found in 40 districts of the country. In Eastern part of Nepal, the major production takes place in Sankhuwasabha, Terathum, Dhankuta and Panchthar whereas in central Nepal they are available in Rasuwa, Dolakha, , Gorkha, Sindhuli, and Makwanpur, while Rolpa, Dolpa, Salyan, Achham and Doti are the major producing districts in western Nepal as per Study by Government of Nepal Ministry of Forests and Soil Conservation Department of Plant Resources 2011. As per UNDP Climate Change Adaptation 2013, Nepal’s annual production in 2013 was estimated at about 711 MT, with 675.6 MT exported to India and Tibet. This number has massively declined in 2023 to 118.5 tons and worth of Rs 22.4m was exported in India in the first five months of the fiscal year 2023/24 as per statistics of the Mechi Customs Office. 

This herb is valued in Pharmacological properties for liver protection, lowering the blood sugar level and also as an antibacterial and antifungal property. Besides these it is also used in different codified systems of traditional medicine, such as Ayurveda and Homoeopathy. Today, its healing compounds are gaining attention from pharmaceutical and wellness industries in Europe, Japan, and North America thanks to raising health consciousness, increasing consumer preference for natural remedies. According to Grand View Research 2022, the global herbal medicine market size was estimated at $70.57bn in 2023 and is projected to reach $328.72 by 2030. As consumers shift toward natural health solutions, Chiraito stands out as a high potential product for the global medicine market. However, Nepal hasn’t been able to unlock its value to the desirable market to meet the global demand. 

Despite such high-value products, Nepal faces numerous obstacles in expanding its export footprint. Nepal’s mountainous terrain and poor transport network make it difficult to move goods efficiently. Rural roads are often unreliable during monsoons. Exporters struggle with lack of storage, packaging, and cold chain systems, especially for perishable products like herbs. Being landlocked, Nepal also relies heavily on Indian ports for maritime trade, resulting in delays, added costs, and limited market access. Yak caravans used to haul pack loads of the herb through Olangchung Gola Nepal to Tibet. Exports stopped in 2020 when the pandemic broke out, and the northern border was tightly shut.

Chiraito is an endangered herb protected under national and international conservation frameworks. Exporters must obtain special permits from forest and environment authorities, which can be time-consuming and bureaucratic. Importing countries (especially in Europe and North America) have strict standards for herbal products that many exporters cannot meet. Inconsistent quality, lack of Good Agricultural Practices, and lack of certified organic or GMP-compliant processing reduce trust.

Nepal has not successfully built a strong country brand around its exports. While “Made in Italy” or “Product of Sri-Lanka” evoke immediate recognition in fashion or tea, “Made in Nepal” remains unfamiliar to most global consumers. This lack of international visibility prevents Nepal from capturing higher value for its unique goods. Moreover, most Nepali exporters are not digitally savvy. E-commerce remains underutilized, and online storytelling about products like Chiraito is rare.

Exporters face challenges in accessing financing for working capital, certifications, and market development. Banks are often reluctant to lend to small enterprises, especially those in agriculture and forestry. Institutions like the Trade and Export Promotion Centre and Department of Plant Resources lack adequate capacity, coordination, and outreach to rural producers.

International markets demand standardization and proof of quality. For herbal products like Chiraito, certifications such as Organic, ISO, and GMP are crucial. Unfortunately, most producers in Nepal lack the training, equipment, and institutional support to obtain these credentials. As a result, their products are rejected or downgraded in global markets.

To unlock Nepal’s export potential, especially in herbal products like Chiraito, strategic action is essential. First, Invest in Infrastructure such as roads, proper production and processing units with required cold storage to support entire units in highly yield areas. Second, simplify the export procedures and policies through clear guidelines to reduce bureaucratic delays.

Third, build a strong national brand that emphasizes the purity and heritage of Nepali products, supported by certification for instance “Organic Nepal” strategically. Fourth, improve coordination among government bodies, cooperatives, and private stakeholders to streamline support to access the market. Fifth, provide training and financial tools such as soft loans and subsidies to motivate producers. Ultimately, Nepal should be able to engage actively in regional and global platforms. 

In districts like Sankhuwasabha, Dolkha, and Darchula, local cooperatives and community forest groups have begun cultivating Chiraito using improved methods. NGOs have supported efforts to enhance traceability and post-harvest processing according to the Ministry of Forests and Soil Conservation Department of Plant Resources 2011.

Imagine Chiraito, sustainably harvested in Nepal, packaged and sold as per premium wellness product or as medicinal herbs in global markets. This vision is achievable and possible if the above-mentioned recommendation is followed by the concerned and appropriate stakeholders from government and private sector both. It will not only boost Nepal’s global identity but also help upgrade the rural incomes and to support the nation’s economy as well. 

Sabana Bhandari

Rajina Shrestha

MBA students

SAIM College, Mid-Baneshwor

Gatha Mugha Cha: Re is celebrated in the month of July by the Newar community to let go of all kinds of bad energy from home. On this day, people make a structure named Gatha Mugha with straw and it’s burnt at every crossroads—dobato, tindobato, satdobato. To know more about this fascinating culture and to explore whether the custom has changed, ApEx asked three people to share their views.

Durga Laxmi Naga, 50

I remember this tradition has been followed in my community since I was child. It’s celebrated to release bad energies—spirits that might harm us spiritually, physically, and psychologically. The way the structure is made has remained unchanged over the years. It’s built using straw for the body, a small bamboo pipe as the handle, a curd pot for the head, and various other items. On this day, farmers specially eat roti as a symbol of purity.

Samir Ranjitkar, 21

It’s a fun tradition that children enjoy being a part of. On this day, a structure called the ‘ghost’—though it might have different names depending on the region—is burned to drive away negative energy from the home. When we were young, our parents would make dolls for us to burn as well, symbolizing the destruction of any bad luck we might have. The structure is carried to the site accompanied by the lively beat of the ‘dhime’ drum. During the procession, people shout harsh and offensive words to symbolize the casting out of evil. However, when the ceremony concludes, positive and sacred words are spoken to invite blessings and good energy.

Kristina Shrestha, 19

Gathamugha is a traditional festival celebrated primarily by the Gathamugaewar community in the Kathmandu Valley of Nepal. Our grandparents told us that Ghanta Karna was a powerful demon who terrorized people, robbed them, killed travelers, and rejected deities. So, people used to take help from gods and deities and kill them by luring them into traps. It’s believed that burning them helps cast out bad omens, diseases, and misfortunes, especially since monsoon is associated with increased illnesses. I find it fun and enjoy it a lot. I think the new generation should keep on celebrating it and make it known to other people as well. This way we can save our traditions and culture.

How do I deal with jealousy in friendships? Can you also help me make sense of what leads to feelings of jealousy among friends?

Answered by Tashi Gurung, counseling psychologist

Jealousy is a feeling few like to admit, yet most have experienced, even within our closest friendships. While it often carries a negative connotation, jealousy is more common and natural than we might think. At its core, jealousy arises from comparison. We notice a friend landing a new job, achieving a degree, or gaining recognition, and it stirs a quiet voice inside: Why not me? This tendency to compare isn’t inherently bad, but it can become emotionally distressing, especially when rooted in self-doubt.

Low self-esteem is one of the key drivers of jealousy. When we’re unsure of our own value, it’s easy to see others’ success as a spotlight on our shortcomings. Questions like what am I lacking or why am I falling behind can quickly spiral into self-criticism.

Competitiveness can make things worse. In environments like school or work, where performance is often stacked against others, it’s easy to view a friend’s progress as a threat rather than a triumph. And beyond achievement, feelings of exclusion can also trigger jealousy. When a close friend grows closer to someone else, we may feel replaced or left behind.

But jealousy doesn’t make us bad friends, it makes us human. The key is to acknowledge it without shame. By understanding where the feeling comes from, we’re less likely to act out of it or let it quietly strain the relationship.

Self-reflection is a good place to start. Ask yourself: What exactly am I jealous of? Why does it affect me? Often, the answers reveal more about our internal struggles than our friends’ actions.

Building self-esteem is also essential. Reminding ourselves of our strengths, values, and progress helps reduce the urge to compare. So does recognizing that everyone’s journey is different. Another person’s success does not diminish our own path.

Practicing gratitude can also shift perspective. When we choose to celebrate our friends’ wins, it fosters connection instead of competition. Reframing jealousy as inspiration—rather than resentment—can be motivating. If your friend achieved something you admire, perhaps it’s a sign to pursue something similar in your own life.

And when jealousy stems from feeling left out, open communication can help. A simple statement like “I’ve been feeling a bit distant lately—can we catch up soon?” can lead to honest conversation and reconnection without blame.

Jealousy in friendships isn’t a sign of failure  but how we handle it can shape the health and longevity of the bond. With awareness and compassion, it can be a gateway to growth in ways you never imagined possible. 

Thousands rallied in Kuala Lumpur on Saturday demanding Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s resignation over rising living costs and unmet reform promises, Firstpost reported.

Chanting “Turun Anwar” (“Step Down Anwar”), protesters gathered at Independence Square. Police estimated at least 18,000 participants.

Anwar, in office since November 2022, has faced backlash for tax hikes and subsidy cuts seen as driving up prices. He recently announced cash aid and a fuel price cut to ease public concern, according to Firstpost.

Critics also accuse him of judicial interference and weak anti-corruption efforts—claims he denies. Former PM Mahathir Mohamad joined the protest, alleging misuse of power against political rivals.

US President Donald Trump on Saturday warned that uncontrolled immigration could “kill Europe,” urging leaders to take stronger action as he arrived in Scotland ahead of talks with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Reuters reported.

Trump said Europe risked losing its identity if migrant flows continued unchecked, calling it a “horrible invasion.” He contrasted this with recent US border crackdowns.

Starmer has echoed similar concerns, pushing for stricter immigration controls. France and the UK recently agreed on migrant return measures, while Italy has vowed not to become “Europe’s refugee camp.”

Trump is in Scotland to open a golf course and will return for a state visit to the UK in September, according to Reuters.

At least eight people were killed and over 13 injured in a gun attack on a judiciary center in Zahedan, southeastern Iran, on Saturday. Iranian officials said five civilians and three attackers died after gunmen attempted to storm the building, according to Firstpost.

Security forces killed the assailants, and an investigation is underway. Iranian media called it a terrorist attack, and the jihadist group Jaish al-Adl reportedly claimed responsibility. Explosions and gunfire were reported near the site.

US President Donald Trump announced that the United States will soon send nearly 200 letters to its trade partners, formalizing tariff agreements, according to Xinhua.

He described the letters as binding deals, stating that once sent, trading partners would be required to pay the agreed tariffs, which he said would remain minimal.

The move follows earlier warnings of import tariffs set to begin on August 1. However, the administration has recently softened its stance amid financial market concerns and inflation risks.

Several countries have strongly opposed the US’s unilateral tariff actions, Xinhua reported.

At least 32 people have been killed in escalating border clashes between Cambodia and Thailand, with thousands forced to flee. Cambodia confirmed 12 new deaths—seven civilians and five soldiers—while Thailand reported 19 total fatalities, including children and soldiers.

Fighting erupted Thursday after a landmine injured five Thai troops near the disputed border. Both sides blame each other for initiating attacks, which include airstrikes and artillery fire. Cambodia has accused Thailand of using banned cluster munitions, while Thailand says Cambodia targeted civilian areas, according to Al Jazeera.

Over 150,000 people have been evacuated across both countries. Thailand has declared martial law in eight districts. The UN Security Council has urged both sides to show restraint and resolve the crisis peacefully.