FNCCI urges Chinese, Bangladeshi delegations to invest in Nepal, citing economic opportunities

KATHMANDU: Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) has urged foreign businesses to invest in Nepal, emphasising the country’s investment potential.

At two separate events held in Kathmandu on Friday, FNCCI leadership briefed representatives from the Chinese and Bangladeshi embassies, alongside delegations from both nations participating in Nepal International Trade Fair 2025, on investment prospects in Nepal’s tourism, hydropower, clean energy, agriculture, and electric vehicle (EV) sectors.

Welcoming the representatives, FNCCI President Chandra Prasad Dhakal stated, “China is Nepal’s second-largest trading partner. There is immense potential in Nepal’s tourism, energy, agriculture, and IT sectors. I urge you all to invest in these areas.”

He mentioned that several policy reforms have been introduced in Nepal to facilitate investment, assuring that FNCCI is ready to assist businesses interested in investing. He also expressed appreciation for China’s continued participation in the Nepal International Trade Fair, highlighting its role in trade and mutual cooperation.

Meanwhile, FNCCI held discussions with the Chinese delegation to strengthen Nepal-China economic relations, address the bilateral trade imbalance, and explore joint venture opportunities. FNCCI Senior Vice President Anjan Shrestha highlighted the potential for trade, investment, and cooperation between Nepal and China, stressing the need for China’s support in market access, export expansion, and overseas trade.

Director-General of the Investment Promotion Agency under China’s Ministry of Commerce (CIPA), Liu Dianxun, stated that Chinese investments are being made across various sectors in Nepal. He reaffirmed China’s willingness to expand investments and improve bilateral trade ties, pledging to facilitate cross-border trade and further support Nepal’s tourism promotion.

Second Secretary at the Economic and Commerce Section of the Chinese Embassy in Kathmandu, Li Zhou, affirmed the embassy’s commitment to promoting Nepali businesses and providing Chinese assistance.

During the discussion, FNCCI Vice President (Commodity) Hem Raj Dhakal stated that Chinese technology, capital, and expertise would significantly contribute to Nepal’s industrial and commercial growth, urging further cooperation from China. Likewise, FNCCI Vice President (Associate) Jyotsna Shrestha called for investment in Nepal’s tourism sector, emphasising its vast potential. FNCCI central member and Trade Fair Committee Chairperson Umesh Dalmia sought Chinese support to enhance Nepali participation in trade fairs organised in China.

A delegation of Chinese and Bangladeshi entrepreneurs is currently in Nepal for the international trade fair, which commenced on 8th May. The Fair Secretariat reported that approximately 5,000 visitors attended the event on Friday.

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