The Nepal Banana Producers Federation announced that domestic banana production is currently sufficient to meet demand during the upcoming Dashain, Tihar, and Chhath festivals.
The Federation has called on fruit suppliers across the country to refrain from importing bananas. It has also formally requested the Fruits and Vegetables Retailers Associations nationwide to stop imports, effective September 17.
Federation Central Chair Bishnuhari Panta said that bringing in bananas when domestic production is adequate could negatively affect the national economy. "Importing bananas when domestic production is adequate not only increases the trade deficit but also threatens local employment opportunities and risks the displacement of Nepali banana farmers," he stated.
Source: Rising Nepal