Jadibuti Association of Nepal (JABAN), established in 1998, is headquartered in Nepalgunj (Province 5) with branches in 11 districts: Bardia, Dang, Darchula, Humla, Kailali, Kalikot, Kanchanpur, Mugu, Pyuthan, Rolpa and Salyan. Each branch operates independently in finance and operations but follows JABAN’s constitution. JABAN promotes the cultivation and sustainable use of herbal, medicinal, and aromatic plants (jadibuti) to enhance local livelihoods, preserve traditional knowledge, and conserve biodiversity. It is a membership-based organisation with 350 members, including herbal/MAP companies, business owners, community forest cooperatives, and herb farmer associations. JABAN elects a president, vice-president, general secretary, treasurer, and a 15-member executive board (including three women) every 2.5 years. JABAN’s headquarters employs four salaried staff, including an Office Head and three logistics staff.

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Improving Productivity and Competitiveness of Herbal and Medicinal and Aromatic Plant (MAP) Companies in Nepal

The partnership between CASA and JABAN focused on strengthening Nepal’s Herbal and Medicinal Aromatic Plants (MAPs) sector by building both institutional and technical capacities. The project undertook two key activities to strengthen the MAP sector through targeted capacity building and strategic planning. The first was a feasibility study conducted by two mapping experts, supported by CASA, to identify specific districts and pocket areas within Provinces 5, 6, and 7 where smallholder farmers would benefit most from training. This mapping exercise was crucial to ensure that any future training efforts would be well-targeted and effective.

The other activity focused on institutional capacity-building for JABAN. Recognising the need for financial sustainability and enhanced competitiveness in the herbal and MAP sector, CASA engaged an international Swiss management expert to provide strategic support that helped JABAN improve its fundraising strategies, financial forecasting, and business development capabilities. Additionally, the expert leveraged international networks to facilitate export market linkages for JABAN’s member companies. This intervention should enable JABAN to diversify its revenue streams beyond membership fees and certificate charges, thereby promoting long-term organisational stability and sector growth.

Updated: August 2025