A state-of-the-art French fry processing facility named ‘Himalayan Crisps’ has been launched in Mainhiya, Shuddhodhan-4, Rupandehi with an investment of Rs. 2 billion. Operated by First Choice Foods, this facility is Nepal’s first modern potato processing industry based on European technology, spanning around 5 bighas of land.
Within a short span of commencing operations, the company has already started exporting its products to India. Chairman Krishna Prasad Poudel revealed that the company is now preparing to expand exports to third countries including the USA, Dubai, Malaysia, and Saudi Arabia in the coming years.
“Our goal is to contribute to Nepal’s food security, create employment, replace imports, and boost exports while advancing local research,” said Poudel. “We have already exported 10 containers of French fries to India in the last three months. Until now, Nepal was fully dependent on imported French fries, but we have now begun local production.”
🏆 Global Certification and Export Readiness
The company has successfully registered with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), opening the doors for exports to the American market. Additionally, it has become the first in Nepal to receive the prestigious BRCGS (Brand Reputation Compliance Global Standard) certification—recognized globally for strict compliance in food safety and quality control.
🥔 Domestic Sourcing and Agricultural Impact
According to Chairman Poudel, over the past five years, the company has invested millions in potato research across the Terai, hilly, and Himalayan regions. As a result, the company has procured approximately 2,000 metric tons of potatoes directly from Nepali farmers this year alone.
French fry-grade potato farming has been successfully tested in 19 districts, including Kailali, Nawalpur, Sindhuli, and Kavrepalanchok, involving tens of thousands of farmers.
“We have also received government approval to conduct R&D and produce seed potatoes,” Poudel added. “Our team includes potato crop experts, food scientists, plant disease specialists, engineers, and chartered accountants. We understand the challenges posed by low-cost imports, market perception toward local products, and even illegal imports. But we are committed to offering safe, high-quality products that meet global standards without compromise.”
🛒 Distribution Network and Market Reach
The Himalayan Crisps brand is currently available through a wide domestic distribution network:
- 5 major distributors in key cities like Kathmandu, Pokhara, Chitwan, Butwal, Itahari, Dang, and Nepalgunj
- Supplied to 12 chain restaurants, over 150 independent suppliers, 400+ restaurants, and 171 modern marts
In India, Pal Frozen Group in Uttarakhand is responsible for distributing the brand in the Indian market.
This marks a significant leap for Nepal’s agro-industry, demonstrating how modern processing, local agriculture, and international quality standards can converge to build a robust export-oriented food manufacturing ecosystem.
