The news of a shortage of wooden boxes to pack oranges was rife last year. However, it is a different story today. The orange season has just begun, and exporters no longer worry about a lack of packaging boxes.
The local sawmills are now making enough boxes. After the government stopped the import of boxes from India in 2022, production shifted to the country.
The sawmills were not able to meet the demand last year.
“We need to make a 20 per cent advance payment for the boxes, but I have already paid my client the full amount, so I was able to meet my demand. This year, I have enough wooden packaging boxes, but I am not sure about others,” said Sangay, Kinley Choki Enterprise.
“Last year, we began producing boxes on short notice, but this year, we started making three months ahead of the export season,” said Bovan Pradhan, Pradhan Enterprises.
“I have enough wooden boxes this year. According to the government, it is not allowed to import wooden packaging boxes and must be sourced within the country. That’s why all exporters must have demanded wooden boxes. I, too, placed my order,” said Sangay Choden, Dru-Gang Enterprise.
Now, piles of boxes have made their way into the depots. There are 13 orange exporters in Gelephu, and each requires about 25,000 boxes per season.
Wooden boxes protect oranges during transport, ensure ventilation, and provide a durable, eco-friendly packing solution.
The construction moratorium in Sarpang is not only benefiting exporters but also supporting sawmills.
Karma Wangdi, Sarpang
