Handicraft Trade Fair records sales of Rs 60 million

Kathmandu / May 9: The 13th Handicraft Trade Fair and 11th Craft Competition concluded on Monday recording Rs 60 million worth of transactions and participation of around 250,000 visitors.

Participating handicraft producers also received several orders during the five-day fair, according to officials of Federation of Handicraft Associations of Nepal (FHAN) – the organizer of the event.

Along with Nepali handicraft producers, exhibitors from India and Bhutan had showcased their products and services through 177 stalls in six pavilions. Pashmina, stone, paper, bamboo, wood and wool, among other products, were showcased in the stalls.

Speaking at the closing ceremony, Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation Ananda Prasad Pokhrel said that his ministry would work to find international markets for Nepali handicraft products. “This type of event helps to promote Nepali handicraft products in both domestic as well as international markets,” he added.

Also speaking at the closing ceremony, Vice President of the Federation of Nepalese Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) Kishor Pradhan urged the government to bring programs for promoting handicraft sector through the upcoming budget.

According to the organizers, the event gave high emphasis to promotion of different products and services enlisted by the government in National Trade Integration Strategy (NTIS).

Meanwhile, the pavilion of Saba Nepal was adjudged the ‘best pavilion’. The firm received cash prize of Rs 100,000 and letter of appreciation. Similarly, Dhanusha Handicraft Industry bagged the ‘best stall’ prize which carries purse of Rs 25,000.