RENDEZVOUS
With a team of 1,200-plus employees spanning five industries and 15 verticals, Ujjwal Kumar Shrestha, executive director of Panchakanya Group, leads Panchakanya Group's pursuit of becoming Nepal's preferred brand. As the third-generation leader of this family business established in 1972, he oversees core manufacturing units specialising in building materials such as steel rebars, plastic pipes and fittings for agriculture, plumbing, water supply, faucet systems, cable and duct lines, stainless steel products, and concrete. The group has diversified into hydropower, real estate, galvanised light structures, uPVC doors and windows, construction, financial institutions, and mining, as well as representing global brands. Shrestha is an active member of global business networks such as YPO and EO, as well as an elected executive member of FNCCI, Nepal's largest private sector umbrella body, which promotes socioeconomic development through private sector-led growth. Bal Krishna Sah of The Himalayan Times caught up with Shrestha to discuss the new trend from wood to uPVC and new technologies in doors and windows. Excerpts:
Can you tell us about the rising trend?
Wood is the best but extremely expensive. Shifting away from wood is becoming an environmental necessity. As the world becomes more commercial, materialistic, and consumerism-oriented, conserving resources and minimising environmental impact will shape the future of every industry. Wood will not be the material of the future.
So, what will replace wood?
We already have WPC (wood-plastic composite), uPVC, aluminium, and other plastics under development. For the time being, the most common replacements are uPVC and aluminium.
Which is more feasible in Nepal?
uPVC consumption is increasing because people see its value beyond being just a door or window. It reduces energy consumption, provides sound insulation, and controls dust in Nepal's cities. It is more popular than aluminium because high-quality aluminium is expensive for many people and regular aluminium does not last long.
Do you have supporting data?
uPVC accounts for about 45 per cent of urban usage. Fabricators and businessmen prefer it over aluminium because it's more durable and affordable.
Many say wood gives a 'natural connection'. How do uPVC products address this?
Any sustainable, eco-friendly, and long-lasting product will eventually be accepted - it's a mindset shift that takes generations. While the benefits of uPVC outweigh the drawbacks of wood, aesthetics remain important. We provide coloured uPVC with gold hooks, wood finishes, and other options that closely match the warmth and style of wood.
How price sensitive is uPVC in Nepal?
Price matters in developing countries, but so does durability. We've ensured uPVC availability for the past 15-20 years through imports and now local manufacturing. We offer four series - Panchakanya Dimex, Neoplast, Tonish, and Sal uPVC - to cater to all price segments. Our economic series competes at Rs 650 to Rs 900 per sq ft, medium at Rs 900 to Rs 1,200, and premium above Rs 1,300. Panchakanya Dimex ranges from Rs 700 to 1,300, while the market trades between Rs 650 and Rs 1,500. We meet all consumer needs, from budget to premium.
How do you ensure the highest quality?
Panchakanya Dimex manufactures high-quality, long-lasting, non-discolouring, and tough uPVC profiles with premium gaskets that have a 20-year warranty. But quality also depends on fabrication. With over 800 fabricators in Nepal, not all meet standards - steel reinforcement, profile finishing, proper sealing, and warranties are often inconsistent.
We train fabricators to ensure proper techniques, quality finishing, and client satisfaction. Our next step is to certify them through dedicated training centres, starting in Kathmandu.
Skilled fabricators mean smoother product flow, mutual growth, and increased consumer demand.
How do you make it eco-friendly?
Few in Nepal prioritise eco-friendliness, but our uPVC meets those standards. First, it's fully recyclable. Second, our profiles are lead-free, preventing harmful chemical emissions. Third, uPVC offers better thermal insulation than aluminium, reducing heating and cooling needs. It also cuts noise and dust pollution indoors.
We are moving towards chemical-free, lead-free profiles, qualifying for green building certification and European standards. Panchakanya Dimex is the first Nepali company certified by Germany's SKZ and India's ATMY for profile quality. This prepares us for supplying MNCs in Nepal and for export, proving Nepal can make world-class products.
Could you explain what green building is and how your product supports it?
Green building means manufacturing sustainably - maximising output while minimising waste, pollution, and resource consumption. Panchakanya was Nepal's first company to earn green steel certification, using pure materials, ensuring worker safety, and reducing environmental harm. Since 2024, we've committed to making all products environmentally friendly, embedding green and sustainable practices into Nepali manufacturing.
What hurdles do you face from the government?
As manufacturers, we adapt to government policies, but we expect support for local industries to become self-sufficient. Our biggest challenge is the lack of manufacturing standards for uPVC in Nepal. We urge the government to set Nepal Standards (NS) aligned with international levels so all manufacturers meet a minimum quality. This would protect consumers and promote fair competition. With proper policy, imports can be reduced, and the industry can thrive domestically.
What is the import/export ratio of uPVC?
Nepal consumes about 13,000 metric tonnes of uPVC annually, up from just 2,000 tonnes seven years ago. Around 85 to 90 per cent is imported - mainly from China - and only 10 per cent is locally made. This leaves huge potential for domestic manufacturing.
How do you ensure your products reach people?
Nepal has over 800 fabricators nationwide. We supply 380 of them, though many still buy from China, India, or other local sources. Our aim is to become their primary supplier in the coming years.
