Nepal’s First Fiber Cement Board Factory Opens with Investment from IME Group

 Kathmandu, June 26 –

Everest Fiber Cement Board Industry, Nepal’s first-ever producer of international-standard fiber cement boards, has officially launched operations with a Rs 1.5 billion investment from the IME Group. The inauguration ceremony was held in Kathmandu on Wednesday, where Minister for Industry, Commerce, and Supplies, Damodar Bhandari, officially opened the factory and introduced the new range of fiber cement board products.

Minister Bhandari praised the launch as a significant step forward in Nepal’s industrial development, highlighting its focus on eco-friendly, high-quality, and technology-driven production. He said such industries not only help reduce imports but also promote sustainable practices in the construction sector.

Chandra Prasad Dhakal, President of the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) and Chairman of IME Group, said the new factory was set up to support Nepal’s construction sector by using local raw materials and resources. He emphasized that local production would reduce the need for imports, save foreign currency, create jobs, and push the country toward a more self-reliant economy.

Located in Fatuwa Bijaypur Municipality–6 in Rautahat District, the factory is fully automated and can produce 75,000 square feet of fiber cement boards per day. The boards—sized 4 ft by 8 ft and available in thicknesses ranging from 4mm to 30mm—are described as fire-resistant, weatherproof, durable, and environmentally friendly. They are suitable for a wide range of construction uses including external walls, partitions, ceilings, modular kitchens, and even as substitutes for bricks and plaster—allowing buildings to be completed in just 10–15 days.

The products are intended for both domestic and export markets and could be especially useful for emergency shelters during natural disasters like earthquakes and floods, according to the company.

The factory also prioritizes local employment, with more than 200 people directly or indirectly involved—over 98% of whom are local residents, and over 40% are women. These employees are engaged in various roles, from production to packaging.

Everest Fiber Cement Board Pvt. Ltd. aims to provide sustainable, affordable, and high-quality building materials, supporting the growing construction needs of Nepal.

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