The Government of Nepal is preparing to export 15 types of herbs to China, an initiative that began during the tenure of former Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal. Although the herbs have yet to reach the Chinese market, efforts are underway to meet China's stringent quarantine standards. A Chinese delegation recently visited Nepal to evaluate the suitability of Nepali herbs for import, a critical step towards fulfilling the phytosanitary protocol signed between the two countries during Dahal’s visit to China in September 2023.

Bhojraj Sapkota, head of the Plant Quarantine and Pesticide Management Center, highlighted that quarantine restrictions remain a significant obstacle for the export of agricultural and medicinal herbs. He explained that herbs destined for China must be free from diseases and pests while adhering to Chinese regulations, including the Biological Safety Law, Quarantine Law, and Food Safety Law.

To address these requirements, five Chinese study teams visited Nepal earlier this year to assess herb quality and train local stakeholders. However, further verification is needed, requiring additional visits from Chinese teams.

“Exports can only proceed after confirmation that Nepali herbs meet Chinese protocols,” Sapkota said. Currently, Nepal is exporting limited quantities of pesticide-free medicinal plants to China, a milestone the government has likened to last year’s first-ever export of processed haylage grass to China.

China has also initiated preparations to import Nepali oranges. An agreement to facilitate the export of citric fruits, including oranges, was reached during Chinese President Xi Jinping's visit to Nepal in October 2019.

Sabnam Siwakoti, joint secretary at the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development, revealed that China is constructing a cold storage facility with advanced supervision capabilities at the Kerung border crossing to support the import of Nepali oranges and tangerines.

China has shown particular interest in Pali tangerines and oranges, prompting multiple visits by Chinese business representatives to inspect Nepali orchards. According to Siwakoti, nursery registration, garden registration, and orchard management programs are already underway in Sindhuli and Syangja districts to meet export standards.

“If the protocol is approved, orange exports from Nepal to China could commence as early as next year,” Siwakoti stated. This initiative is expected to open new markets for Nepali citrus fruits producers and strengthen trade ties between the two countries.