Kathmandu – Herbal Production and Processing Company Limited, a renowned Nepali company that has introduced Nepal’s herbal products to the global market, has suffered massive losses following an attack by royalist supporters.

Last Friday, the company’s premises were vandalized and set on fire, resulting in an estimated NPR 2.8 billion in damages. According to initial reports, the fire destroyed 13 company vehicles, six motorcycles, and raw materials, along with ready-to-market medicines worth millions.

Sangita Yadav, the company’s General Manager, stated that the destruction affected buildings and advanced machinery used for manufacturing Sancho, a well-known herbal remedy. As a result, production has been completely halted.

“The production should not stop. We have already prepared short-term and long-term plans to resume operations as soon as possible. We have submitted a preliminary damage report to the government and are hopeful for immediate support,” Yadav said.

Company’s Future Plans

Established in 1981, the company produces various herbal products, including Sancho, Sancho Balm, Sancho Jata Hair Oil, and Sancho Pain Relief Oil. The company’s popular Sancho product alone has generated an annual revenue of Rs. 60 million.

Currently, the company supplies Sancho in 5ml and 10ml bottles and also produces a balm for children. Additionally, Sancho Jata oil was developed to help reduce hair fall.

Yadav revealed that a new product, Sancho Honey, was scheduled for launch this week, with production and packaging already completed. However, the unexpected incident has delayed its release.

Government’s Role and Market Risks

Although the company operates under Nepal’s Herbal Production and Processing Company Limited Act, it is a self-sustaining entity that generates its own revenue. It employs permanent, contract-based, and daily wage workers.

Yadav emphasized that the government must implement both short-term and long-term strategies to restore operations. She warned that if the company fails to resume production soon, foreign competitors might capture the market, affecting the company, consumers, and the country’s economy.

Despite the crisis, Yadav remains optimistic. “With collective efforts, we can heal the wounds inflicted on the company and bring it back to operation,” she stated.