Lalitpur: The 18th Godavari Flower Competition and Exhibition 2082 officially commenced on October 16, celebrating Nepal’s growing floriculture industry. Organized by the Floriculture Association Nepal (FAN), the five-day exhibition will run until October 19, featuring over 90 stalls showcasing a diverse range of flowers and ornamental plants.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, Dr. Govinda Prasad Sharma, Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development, praised the private sector’s contribution to the development and promotion of Nepal’s flower industry. He assured that the ministry would address policy-level issues to support the sector’s growth, expansion, and competitiveness.
“The flower business must adapt to global trends and adopt quality self-regulation practices,” Dr. Sharma said. He also noted that the government is advancing the registration of ornamental plants under existing seed regulations and emphasized cooperation to curb illegal flower imports that harm domestic producers.
Dr. Sharma further shared that although the Agriculture Bill has been drafted, its approval is pending due to the absence of a parliament. He added that an agricultural policy covering the interests of the sector is being prepared for submission to the Council of Ministers. Efforts are also underway to introduce insurance mechanisms to safeguard entrepreneurs against business risks.
Highlighting the need to promote natural floriculture, he said, “The use of plastic flowers should be discouraged. We will also strengthen quarantine inspections of agricultural and floral materials entering the country.”
Hemraj Dhakal, Vice President of the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) and President of the Commodity Council, emphasized the need to create better facilities for seed development and regular exhibitions to promote the flower business. He also urged the government to create a favorable business environment by discouraging illegal practices that undermine fair competition.
Rabindra Thapa, Chief of the Flower Development Center, expressed confidence that the event would significantly contribute to the promotion of floriculture and job creation.
Meanwhile, FAN President Rajesh Bhakta Shrestha shared that the association has been organizing this annual competitive exhibition to support the growth and visibility of Nepal’s floriculture industry. He added that this year’s event is expected to generate a turnover of over Rs. 4 million.
The Godavari Flower Exhibition has become a major platform for floriculture entrepreneurs, enthusiasts, and the general public to engage with Nepal’s vibrant and evolving flower industry.
More Photos:
