Nepalese Lokta paper is renowned for its durability, defying humidity, tearing, and mold. For centuries, it was used as the official medium for preserving government records.
It stands immune to the ravages of papercrawlers and silverfish, and its remarkable resistance to water is proven through vibrant color dyes that grace its surface. Beyond its practicality, Lokta paper carries a rich cultural legacy, having been the canvas for traditional sacred texts. The text imprinted on a Lokta sheet can endure for millennia, spanning 2000 to 3000 years, a testament to its enduring quality.
Notably, Trade & Export Promotion Center ( TEPC ), in collaboration with Nepal Handmade Paper Association (HANDPASS) and other prominent trading groups, has championed the development of a collective trademark known as ‘Nepalokta’ for handmade Nepali paper. This trademark has already earned recognition in the European Union. Stringent norms and a Code of Conduct (CoC) have been meticulously crafted to outline the criteria for using this logo in the packaging materials and letterheads of handmade paper processors and exporters. The CoC serves as a beacon of uncompromising quality standards.
UNICEF’s endorsement underscores Lokta’s sustainability as a raw material, with Baglung and Myagdi districts consistently producing Lokta paper for over 35 years without harming the environment. Similar sustainable harvesting practices are observed in other Lokta paper-producing districts. Lokta’s natural habitat spans across 55 of Nepal’s 75 districts, gracing the forests of the east, western mountains, and the Himalayan regions. Its remarkable journey continues on the global stage, with major export destinations including the United States, United Kingdom, France, Germany, Japan, Australia, Singapore, the Netherlands, Italy, Denmark, Switzerland, and China.