Nepal resumes exports to India after Quality Certification renewal

Exports of Nepali-made shoes, plywood, and sanitary pads to India have resumed following a recent extension of quality certifications by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). The certificates, which had previously expired, disrupted exports for several months. However, India has now temporarily recognized existing certifications for these items until January 2025, with the exception of cement and zinc sheets, according to Baburam Adhikari, Joint Secretary at Nepal’s Ministry of Industry, Commerce, and Supplies.

Despite the resumption, Nepal awaits formal notification from Indian authorities. Adhikari highlighted that this breakthrough came after diplomatic efforts prompted by complaints from Nepali industrialists. The delay in renewals had significantly impacted cement exports, which dropped to 18,308 tons in the first quarter of the current fiscal year from 155,248 tons during the same period last year.

Goldstar, a popular Nepali shoe brand, has also resumed exports to India. Kiran Shoes Manufacturers, the producer of Goldstar, faced temporary layoffs due to certification delays but has now received the necessary approvals. The company is planning to set up a manufacturing unit in Bhairahawa’s Special Economic Zone to streamline exports.

Officials speculate that India’s delays in renewing certifications may be linked to Nepal’s ban on nine categories of foreign dairy products, which has been a contentious issue in recent bilateral talks.