Buffer or crutch? Nepal clings to 'least developed country' perks

A pashmina shawl is dyed with leaves and flowers at a factory in Kathmandu on Sept. 25: Nepalese textiles and apparel could face new tariffs when the country loses its "least developed country" status. (Photo by Ken Kobayashi)

The Details

• Policy Asia
• New government challenged to see through graduation preparations
• DEEPAK ADHIKARI
• November 13, 2026 06:01 JST

KATHMANDU -- A luxuriantly soft pashmina sweater from Nepal can easily fetch $200 or more at shops in the West. Few buyers would guess that the yarn it was made from was probably produced in China.

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