FNCCI welcomes SEJON executive committee; calls for change in attitude towards private sector
KATHMANDU: Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) President, Chandra Prasad Dhakal, has said the country must change its attitude towards the private sector.
Speaking at the FNCCI secretariat on Tuesday, Dhakal welcomed the newly elected executive committee of the Society of Economic Journalists – Nepal (SEJON). He warned that the private sector is too often targeted in protests, despite being the nation’s largest employer.
President Dhakal said attacks on businesses give the impression that people do not understand how vital the private sector is. “The private sector is the backbone of the country’s economy. It contributes 81% to GDP and 86% to employment,” he said, urging the media to report on these issues more clearly.
A preliminary FNCCI assessment shows the private sector lost about Rs 80 billion to vandalism and arson during the Gen-Z protests on September 8 and 9. “We have faced many political and natural disasters. The recent protests caused significant damage to both government and private properties. We must now rise above this situation,” Dhakal said.
He praised the government’s fast relief package for businesses. He said this has lifted business morale. He also said that fact-based and investigative journalism can boost the private sector’s credibility and drive policy reforms. He welcomed SEJON’s support in this effort.
On the occasion, FNCCI Senior Vice President Anjan Shrestha said recent incidents have left industrialists and businesspeople feeling insecure. He urged that peace and order be maintained to keep morale high. He warned that these events have sent a negative message internationally and could harm employment.
Likewise, FNCCI Vice President Hem Raj Dhakal called for a permanent dialogue between the private sector and the government. He said this is needed to restore the economy and ensure good governance. He added that businesspeople must be able to work openly and with confidence.
FNCCI Treasurer Bharat Raj Acharya urged the government to work with businesses on security for reconstruction and new projects. He said this cooperation is vital for Nepal’s economic revitalisation.
Similarly, SEJON President Bhagwat Bhattarai said his organisation has long supported a free economy, entrepreneurship and job creation through economic journalism. He underlined the importance of continuing the long-standing collaboration with the FNCCI.
The FNCCI also called for a joint effort to create an environment that encourages economic growth, job creation and innovation. It urged all parties to focus on the country’s overall prosperity.
