About Pashmina
Chyangra Pashmina, also known as “cashmere” internationally, is celebrated as the finest grade of cashmere, is revered as the world’s most luxurious fiber. Sourced from the native Himalayan mountain goats known as “Chyangra” (capra hircus laniger), this exquisite material is found in the remote heights of Nepal's Himalayas, where these goats thrive at elevations exceeding three thousand meters. Nepalese Pashmina, is derived from the delicate undercoat of these goats living in high altitude. The craftsmanship involved in producing this coveted fiber sustains age-old skills and is deeply intertwined with Nepal's cultural heritage. As a significant economic driver, particularly in export revenue, Nepali Pashmina holds a distinguished place in the global market, celebrated for its unparalleled quality and authenticity.
About Pashmina Industry in Nepal
The pashmina sector is a significant contributor to Nepal's national economy, particularly in terms of exports, employment, and cultural heritage. Pashmina is not only an economic commodity but also a cultural symbol of Nepal. Nepalese pashmina, often referred to as "Cashmere" is made from the fine undercoat of the Himalayan mountain goat, known as Chyangra. Its production sustains traditional skills and crafts, which are integral to the cultural identity of the country. The industry has deep cultural roots in Nepal and is a significant contributor to the country's economy, particularly in terms of export revenue. Nepalesepashmina holds a unique position in the global market, renowned for its quality and authenticity.The "Chyangra Pashmina" trademark, introduced to protect and promote Nepalese pashmina globally, helps maintain its competitive edge which are registered in 47 countries as a collective trademark. In the fiscal year 2023-2024, pashmina products generated export revenues of approximately USD 15 million. The National Pashmina Sector Export Strategy 2022-2026 aims to boost the sector by improving supply chains, increasing quality, and expanding into new international markets with a target of achieving USD 75 million in exports by 2026. The pashmina industry provides employment to over three-hundred thousand people in Nepal, particularly in rural areas where alternative employment opportunities are limited. The sector supports both direct employment in production and indirect employment through supply chains, including herding, spinning, weaving, and dyeing. A significant portion of the workforce in the pashmina sector comprises women, who are involved in various stages of production. This industry plays a crucial role in empowering women economically, offering them stable income opportunities.
The Nepal Pashmina Industry Association (NPIA)
The Nepal Pashmina Industry Association (NPIA) is a unique organization representing the pashmina industry in Nepal established on 2056/57 with 80 founding members with aim to support and promote the pashmina sector. The association plays a crucial role in maintaining the quality and reputation of Nepalese pashmina products, which are renowned for their exceptional softness, warmth, and fine craftsmanship. The NPIA's mission includes advocating for the rights and interests of pashmina producers and traders, ensuring the standardization of pashmina products, and protecting the unique identity of Nepalese pashmina in the global market. The association also focuses on policy advocacy, capacity building, providing training and resources to artisans, and encouraging sustainable and ethical production practices. Through collaboration with government bodies, international organizations, community people and other wider stakeholders, the Nepal Pashmina Industry Association aims to enhance the global competitiveness of Nepalese pashmina and preserve this traditional craft for future generations. Many of the business in pashmina production are small and medium enterprise (SMEs) which are vital for economic diversification and inclusive growth in Nepal. Pashmina sub-sector is taking advantage of least developed country trade preferences with special trading arrangements that offer preferential access to markets for products from LDC. As Nepal... The Nepal Pashmina Industry Association (NPIA) is a unique organization representing the pashmina industry in Nepal established on 2056/57 with 80 founding members with aim to support and promote the pashmina sector. The association plays a crucial role in maintaining the quality and reputation of Nepalese pashmina products, which are renowned for their exceptional softness, warmth, and fine craftsmanship. The NPIA's mission includes advocating for the rights and interests of pashmina producers and traders, ensuring the standardization of pashmina products, and protecting the unique identity of Nepalese pashmina in the global market. The association also focuses on policy advocacy, capacity building, providing training and resources to artisans, and encouraging sustainable and ethical production practices. Through collaboration with government bodies, international organizations, community people and other wider stakeholders, the Nepal Pashmina Industry Association aims to enhance the global competitiveness of Nepalese pashmina and preserve this traditional craft for future generations. Many of the business in pashmina production are small and medium enterprise (SMEs) which are vital for economic diversification and inclusive growth in Nepal. Pashmina sub-sector is taking advantage of least developed country trade preferences with special trading arrangements that offer preferential access to markets for products from LDC. As Nepal works towards graduation from the Least Developed Country (LDC) status, the pashmina sector’s contributions to export revenue and employment are crucial. Enhancing the sector’s productivity and value addition is seen as a key strategy to bolster Nepal’s economic resilience and competitiveness in the global market post- graduation. Efforts to improve productivity, quality, and market access are essential for maximizing this sector's potential in supporting national economic growth. Considering the current scenario and its implications for the future, NPIA has been engaging with the government of Nepal, development partners, and international traders for favorable policies, laws, and the development of strategic options to protect and grow the pashmina
Pashmina's contribution to Nepalese economy
Pashmina is a cornerstone of Nepal’s economy, generating substantial employment and revenue. Beyond its cultural significance, the pashmina industry sustains the livelihoods of countless artisans, with a particular focus on empowering women in rural areas. The sector supports a broad workforce, from herders and spinners to weavers, dyers, and embroiderers. Additionally, pashmina exports play a crucial role in Nepal’s foreign exchange earnings, positioning the country as a global leader in luxury textiles.
Globally, Nepalese pashmina has become a highly coveted luxury item, renowned for its exquisite quality and craftsmanship. The surge in demand has propelled Nepal’s pashmina industry onto the international stage, significantly increasing export revenues. However, this global recognition has also introduced challenges such as counterfeit products and price fluctuations. Despite these issues, Nepal remains committed to preserving traditional techniques while embracing modern trends, ensuring its leadership in the pashmina market.
In the fiscal year 2023-2024, pashmina products generated export revenues of approximately USD 15 million. The National Pashmina Sector Export Strategy 2022-2026 aims to enhance the sector by improving supply chains, boosting quality, and exploring new international markets, with a target of achieving USD 75 million in exports by 2026. The industry supports over three hundred thousand people in Nepal, particularly in rural areas with limited alternative employment opportunities. This includes both direct roles in production and indirect positions through the supply chain. Notably, a significant portion of the workforce comprises women, whose economic empowerment is a crucial benefit of the industry, providing them with stable income and opportunities for advancement.
Efforts to Preserve Tradition
NPIA is deeply committed to preserving the invaluable heritage of pashmina weaving and has launched several initiatives to protect and promote this traditional craft. Skill development programs have been introduced to train new generations of artisans in age-old techniques, ensuring the continuity of this cultural legacy. Livelihood support initiatives are focused on empowering pashmina producers, with a special emphasis on supporting women and fostering their economic independence. Additionally, there has been a growing emphasis on fair trade and ethical sourcing practices, aimed at ensuring that artisans receive equitable compensation for their work. These combined efforts reflect our dedication to sustaining the pashmina industry's rich heritage while advancing its economic and social impact.
Future Outlook
We are actively working to produce cashmere yarn from Nepalese cashmere fibers through a collaborative initiative supported by the EU, aimed at establishing local Chyangra goat farming. Despite facing various challenges, our goal is to generate sufficient cashmere fiber to reduce reliance on imported raw materials and achieve self-sufficiency. Sustainability remains a core focus of our efforts, with initiatives designed to minimize environmental impact and reinstate animal welfare. Additionally, leveraging technology to improve market reach and engage with consumers will be vital. By building on our rich heritage and embracing modern trends, Nepal is poised to reinforce its position as a global leader in the luxury cashmere market.