By Sandeep Chaudhary
Special Loan Facility for Export-Oriented Women Employment Industries

The Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) has introduced a special loan facility to promote industries that not only generate employment for women but also contribute significantly to exports and domestic value addition. Under this policy, industries that employ at least 100 women, ensure 20% value addition, and maintain 20% of total production for export markets will be eligible for concessional loans.
The loan will be provided at base rate +1% premium, a concession compared to standard borrowing costs. This measure is designed to encourage industries in sectors like textiles, handicrafts, agro-processing, and manufacturing, which traditionally engage large numbers of women workers. By offering lower financing costs, NRB aims to strengthen women-led employment generation, industrial competitiveness, and foreign exchange earnings.
This initiative also reflects Nepal’s broader commitment to inclusive economic growth, where female employment and export-oriented industries play a critical role in long-term sustainability. Employers must apply for this facility before Poush 2082, ensuring they meet the set criteria to qualify.