KATHMANDU: Minister for Industry, Commerce and Supplies Deepak Kumar Shah has said that the European Union (EU) support is important for expanding the access and export of Nepali products to the European market.

Minister Shah said this while speaking at a special program organized at Aranya Boutique Hotel in Kathmandu on Wednesday to mark the 25th anniversary of the implementation of the EU’s ‘Everything But Arms’ trade facilitation programme. The event was organized by the Federation of Export Entrepreneurs Nepal in collaboration with the EU Nepal delegation, International Trade Centre and Accountability Lab.

On the occasion, Minister Shah expressed the belief that the support provided by the EU for Nepal’s export promotion would be more effective and result-oriented in the coming days. Stating that collaboration with the private sector would be taken forward for the increase of exports to Europe in the coming days, he said, “The government is fully committed to enhancing Nepal’s export capacity, increasing the access of Nepali products in the European market and resolving the practical problems faced by the exporters.” ”

The EBA program has been providing customs and quota-free access to the European market on all goods except arms to the least developed countries. The program reviewed the 25 years of experience and discussed the trade challenges and transitional preparedness that will arise after Nepal’s upgrading from LDC.

On the occasion, European Union Ambassador to Nepal Charles Whiteley praised the uniqueness and uniqueness of Nepali products. Pointing out that there is high potential for Nepali products in the international market, he pledged continuous support from the EU to solve the challenges faced by Nepali entrepreneurs while exporting to the European market.

Likewise, President of the Federation of Export Entrepreneurs, Govinda Ghimire underscored the need of continuous dialogue and collaboration between the EU and the government of Nepal to resolve problems seen in course of EU and exports.

On the occasion, Nepali entrepreneurs who have been exporting to European market shared their experiences and challenges.

In the final stages of the event, the participants witnessed the main celebration of the 25th anniversary of the EBA held on November 4 at the Charlemagne building of the European Commission in Brussels via live broadcast. The international event was attended by high officials of the EU, representatives of the least developed countries and business leaders.