Investment opportunities in Nepal in the agriculture sector -Part IV

Flower seed production

Due to varying ago climatic conditions Nepal is in an unique position to produce a wide variety of flowering seeds which could be sold in international markets. In the summer season zinnia, marigold, gladiolus, salvia, dahlia, canna are grown extensively. In winter and spring most of the annual flowers such as bellies, dianthus, pansy, antirrhinum, helichrysum, aapaver, verbena, sun flower and so on are grown. The potential for seed production of the following varieties, in particular, has been identified as being very good: anemone sp., aster, chrysanthemum morifolium, elsholtzia californica (california poppies), lathryus odoratus (sweet peas).

The availability of varied climatic conditions and inexpensive labour provide Nepal a comparative advantage to produce flower seeds at low cost. Commercial production and export of flower seeds require maintenance of high technical standards and good supervision. Technology and expertise of foreign companies could be effectively employed to develop this profitable agro-business in Nepal. [http://www.catmando.com/gov/industry/fip… ]