Sea buckthorn is found in most of the Hindu Kush Himalayan (HKH) region, and is a niche high value multipurpose crop. Building on the successful experiences of its Pakistan pilot, ICIMOD would like to explore the regional potential of a sea buckthorn value chain to strengthen alternative livelihood options for mountain men and women across the HKH.

ICIMOD would like to explore avenues for regional collaboration with potential partner organizations  (public and private) for the exchange of knowledge, research, and business-to-business linkages. The centre hopes that such regional partnerships will evolve as necessary and sustain in the long run.

Objectives/expected results

• To learn about the status of prevailing knowledge—science, research, technology, innovations, and practices—on sea buckthorn.
• To see, observe, and discuss sea buckthorn-related value addition and innovation options with reference to a number of products, market needs/niche markets/preferences, packing and packaging, business models, and investments in the HKH.
• To discuss the possibility of a regional business platform on sea buckthorn.
• To foster collaboration, networks, and partnerships.
• To identify key policy matters between countries to foster the sea buckthorn value chain.