Everest Fiber Cement Board Industry Begins Operations as Nepal’s First Fiber Cement Board Manufacturer, Backed by IME Group Investment
Kathmandu – Nepal’s first-ever fiber cement board manufacturing industry with international quality standards has officially commenced operations today. Established with an investment of NPR 1.5 billion by IME Group, the new venture; Everest Fiber Cement Board Pvt. Ltd., aims to transform the construction materials sector with high-quality, eco-friendly, and durable products produced entirely within the country.
The industry was formally inaugurated by Minister for Industry, Commerce and Supplies, Damodar Bhandari, at a program held in Kathmandu. Minister Bhandari also officially launched the fiber cement boards and associated products manufactured by the company.
Speaking at the event, Minister Bhandari stated that the establishment of a technologically advanced, environmentally sustainable, and quality-driven industry within Nepal is a major step forward in the nation’s industrial development. He emphasized that this industry not only promotes import substitution but also paves the way for sustainable growth in the construction sector. The government, he added, is committed to supporting investment in production-focused industries.
Chandra Prasad Dhakal, President of the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) and Chairman of IME Group, also addressed the event. He highlighted that the new industry was founded with a focus on utilizing domestic raw materials and local resources to contribute meaningfully to the country’s construction sector. Dhakal noted that local production will significantly reduce the outflow of foreign currency by replacing imports, ultimately promoting economic self-reliance.
“This industry proves that international-standard construction materials can be produced within Nepal using local skills, resources, and potential,” Dhakal added.
The industry is located in Ward No. 6 of Fatuwa Bijaypur Municipality, Rautahat District. With a fully automated production system, the factory covers every stage of production from raw material mixing to board cutting, pressing, and drying. It has a daily production capacity of 75,000 square feet of fiber cement board.
The boards are available in 4 feet by 8 feet dimensions, with thickness ranging from 4 mm to 30 mm. They are flexible, fire-resistant, weatherproof, eco-friendly, and highly durable.
These fiber cement boards are suitable for a wide range of applications, including exterior facades, partitions, false ceilings, modular kitchens, eco-panels, and even complete wall structures as an alternative to bricks and plaster. Notably, structures using these boards can be completed within 10 to 15 days, making them highly appealing in both the domestic and international markets.
The boards are also positioned as an ideal solution for emergency shelters during natural disasters such as earthquakes, floods, or landslides, due to their quick installation, cost-effectiveness, and durability. Since they require no plaster or paint, they also help save significantly on time and construction costs.
The factory emphasizes local employment generation, currently providing direct or indirect jobs to around 200 individuals, with over 98% being local workers and more than 40% being women. Employees are engaged in all stages of the process, from production to packaging.
Everest Fiber Cement Board Pvt. Ltd. aims to make a lasting impact on the construction sector through its commitment to quality, environmental sustainability, and competitive manufacturing.
