With urbanisation on the rise in Nepal, the demand for tiles in modern homes has surged. To meet the need, domestic tile manufacturing is expanding, with the latest addition being the Laminar Vitrified Tile factory in Bardiya.

Established by Lumbini Ceramics Limited, the factory in Gulariya Municipality-8 commenced production at the end of August this year. Equipped with advanced machinery, it produces high-quality vitrified tiles designed to withstand wear and tear.

The production process involves transforming raw materials like clay and minerals into a slurry using a ball mill, which is then dried into powder through a spray dryer machine. The powder is pressed into tile forms, washed, glazed, and printed before undergoing strength and durability tests. Once cut to size, the tiles are packaged for market distribution.

Speaking about the product, Abhinav Churiwal, Director of Lumbini Ceramics, stated, “Our vitrified tiles absorb less than 0.08 percent water, ensuring minimal damage and superior durability.” He emphasised that such precision in manufacturing sets their tiles apart from many in the market, which absorb significantly more water.

The factory spans over 12 bighas (around 8.12 hectare) and represents an investment of Rs 4 billion, with Rs 2.8 billion secured through bank loans.

Its current daily production capacity is 140,000 square feet, but full operations are yet to be achieved. Churiwal remains optimistic about increasing production as demand grows and new dealers join the network.

Currently employing over 300 people, the factory imports raw materials from Rajasthan, India. But, plans are in place to shift to locally sourced materials from its mine in Dadeldhura, further reducing costs and reliance on imports.

Pricing for Laminar tiles remains competitive, ranging from Rs 80 to Rs 200 per square foot, depending on thickness and other specifications. Churiwal noted that the growing popularity of tiles for flooring and walls, particularly in urban areas, was a major factor behind the investment.

Nepal's push for domestic production is bolstered by a 40 percent customs duty on tile imports, making local tiles more attractive. According to the Department of Customs, ceramic imports fell from Rs 14.78 billion in FY 2021/22 to Rs 9.68 billion in FY 2023/24, a direct result of the emergence of domestic tile factories.

Churiwal highlighted that six tile factories have opened in Nepal over the past two years, reducing the nation’s dependence on imported products. “With local production on the rise, we are witnessing a steady decline in imports,” he said.

This large-scale investment comes at a crucial time, breathing new life into Nepal's manufacturing sector, which has long been in need of revitalisation.