Pashmina Exports to China Inch Up 2.3%: A Rare Bright Spot

Amid an overall collapse in Nepal’s exports to China, pashmina has emerged as a rare bright spot, recording a modest 2.3% growth in FY 2025/26, according to Nepal Rastra Bank’s trade data.

In 2024/25, Nepal exported Rs. 52.8 million worth of pashmina to China. By 2025/26, this figure edged slightly higher to Rs. 3.1 million in one month, compared to Rs. 3.0 million during the same period last year. While the growth is minimal, it stands out at a time when most traditional exports like woolen carpets, handicrafts, and garments are facing sharp declines.

The resilience of pashmina reflects its luxury branding, premium demand among niche consumers, and Nepal’s established reputation in this sector. However, the limited scale of growth shows that the industry still faces challenges such as high production costs, limited innovation, and competition from synthetic substitutes.

For Nepal, pashmina’s slight growth signals that with better branding, diversification into high-end markets, and government support, the sector can play a stronger role in boosting exports and preserving artisan livelihoods.