Bhrikuti Paper Factory in Ruins, Nepal More Reliant on Imports

Kathmandu. Once considered the basis of Nepal's self-sufficiency in paper production, Bhrikuti Paper Factory is now limited to dilapidated structures and closed machinery. This industry, established with the objective of producing paper domestically and replacing imports, has not seen any concrete initiative for its revival even after a decade and a half of closure. With the closure of the industry, Nepal has become even more dependent on the import of paper and paper products.

Bhrikuti Paper Factory was established in Gaidakot of Nawalparasi (now Nawalpur) with the assistance of the then People's Republic of China government. Established in 2039 BS, the industry started commercial production in 2043 BS. With a daily production capacity of about 42 metric tons of paper, this industry used to supply about 35 percent of Nepal's total paper demand at that time. The factory also used to export high-quality pulp to countries including Japan.