STiR coffee and tea magazine

44 STiR coffee and tea | 2025 Quarter 3 Autumn (Sep/Oct/Nov) Coffee is considered a high-priority commodity, and the NCPA is aiding farmers with production needs and educating them on enhanced quality methods. Photo credit: NCPA Young specialty-focused baristas, roasters, and consumers love the unique flavors of Nepali coffee. Photo credit: Kar.maCOFFEE USAID, and the International Trade Center (ITC) have supported coffee value chain development by organizing trainings and implementing market access projects in cooperation with the NCPA. The current production of 400 metric tons is pro- jected to quadruple within the next five years, with NCPA's assistance. NCPA's Many Endeavors Manisha Saud, program coordinator of the NCPA, told STiR, "There are a few projects we are work- ing on to boost coffee production [in Nepal]. We have been conducting frequent awareness pro- grams on the utilization of fallow lands as well as marginal lands to enhance coffee plantations. I believe collaboration with research institutions to produce high-yielding, disease-resistant, and cli- mate-resilient varieties would be beneficial soon." Currently, the NCPA is facilitating the pro- duction and distribution of certified, high-quality seedlings to producers. They continuously encour- age farmers to follow best agricultural practices, including shade management, appropriate fertil- ization and irrigation, and pruning techniques, as they promote the Integrated Nutrient Manage- ment System, Integrated Pest Management Sys- tem, and Good Agricultural Practices to enhance coffee production while ensuring environmental conservation. "We plan to implement robust quality assurance initiatives to enhance the global competitiveness of Nepali coffee," Saud adds. "We aim to promote standardized production practices, rigorous grading systems, and internation- al certifications to help position Nepal's specialty coffee as a premium prod- uct in high-value markets." NCPA also plans to organize additional training programs on sustainable farming, post-harvest handling, and improvements in processing. Local Roaster Market Coffee didn't used to be popular in Nepal, but over the last decade, things have changed dramatically. Today, Nepal consumes more coffee than it ex- ports. In the previous fiscal year, approximately 2,700 metric tons of green beans were sold domestically. There are currently over 7,000 coffee shops operating in Nepal, ranging from local cafés to high-end specialty outlets. Many of these cafés are starting to roast in-house or source from local micro-roasters, helping to build a new appreciation for Nepal-grown coffee. Additionally, there is a noticeable increase in young, specialty-focused ac- tors — both within Nepal and among the Nepali diaspora. These new proces- sors, roasters, and baristas are bringing in fresh energy, experimenting with nano-lots, naturals, anaerobic processes, and direct-to-customer sales. Nepal is establishing its identity as a specialty origin. For many young Ne- palis, coffee culture represents more than just a drink. It's a lifestyle, a creative outlet, and a platform for connection. It also plays a vital role in promoting Nepali coffee, with more cafés now sourcing directly from local producers. Gaining Momentum This momentum presents an opportunity, but only if the supply side keeps up the pace. The industry needs better infrastructure, more pre- and post-harvest training, stronger alignment between farmers, roasters, and consumers, and for the government to provide a more enabling environment. Nepal has what it takes to become a respected name in specialty coffee. If the industry invests wisely — in people, in partnerships, and in transpar- ency — Nepal can carve out a unique space on the global coffee map, not by copying others, but by offering something deeply rooted in its own landscape and culture.

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