Nepal’s cement industry: growth, jobs and pollutionCEFR B1
25 Nov 2025
Adapted from Qian Sun, Global Voices • CC BY 3.0
Photo by JC Gellidon, Unsplash
The cement sector in Nepal expanded rapidly after the 2015 Gorkha earthquake. Major foreign investments from China, notably Hongshi in 2017 (USD 359 million, 70 percent stake) and Huaxin in 2019 (USD 140 million), helped the country become self-sufficient by 2019 and start exports to India in July 2022.
Nepal has 1.07 billion tons of limestone and 124 registered cement factories, with 72 operating and producing up to 22 million tons per year. The industry’s estimated annual turnover is about NPR 150 billion (over USD 1 billion). Exports earned NPR 3.85 billion (USD 24 million) in financial year 2023/24.
At the same time there are clear social and environmental costs. The September 2024 floods killed nearly 250 people, and at least 69 deaths in Rosi Valley were linked to unregulated quarrying and sand mining. Studies and surveys report air, water, noise and soil pollution from plants and poor mine management.
Difficult words
- production — the process of making goods or materials.
- investment — putting money into something for profit.investments
- environmental — related to the natural world.
- communities — groups of people living in the same area.
- pollution — harmful substances in the air or water.
- health — state of being free from illness.
- sustainability — the ability to maintain balance over time.
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- What are the pros and cons of cement production in Nepal?
- How can local communities balance economic needs and environmental health?
- In what ways can residents' voices be heard more effectively in development projects?
Related articles
Norwegian research ship cancels Sri Lanka survey
A Norwegian research vessel cancelled its planned 2025 survey in Sri Lankan waters after delays in government approval. The FAO-assigned ship was reassigned to Madagascar and scientists say the missed mission will slow important marine research.
Iran's water emergency worsens amid heat and outages
A summer heatwave and widespread power outages have intensified Iran’s water emergency. Officials report sharply falling dam reserves, groundwater depletion and possible summer rationing as authorities warn of harder measures to save energy and water.
