According to Herbals Traders Association -- an organization of producers and exporters of medicinal herbs -- a total of 7,000 tons of medicinal herbs worth Rs 3 billion were exported to overseas countries during the review year. The amount was Rs 1 billion during the earlier fiscal year.[break]
Medicinal herbs collected from different districts in the regions are becoming immensely popular in international market, especially in European countries.
“Medicinal herbs traders, who were earlier dependent on Indian buyers, exported herbs worth around Rs 600 million to Europe through the Nepalgunj custom point alone,” said Madhukar Thapa Kshetri, president of the association.
Until about a year ago, India was the sole importer of Nepali medicinal herbs. With the emergence of Europe as the new market, China, Pakistan, Bangladesh and USA are also placing demands for Nepali medicinal herbs.
Traders say the price of medicinal herbs has increased remarkably, thanks to market expansion. Jatamasi oil, Rittha, Yarshagumba, Sikhakai and mushrooms are the popular Nepali medicinal herb products among foreign buyers.
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