One-window system is necessary for industrial development: FNCCI President
KATHMANDU: Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) President Chandra Prasad Dhakal has said a one‑window system is necessary for industrial development.
Speaking at a programme organised by the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supplies at the Department of Industry on Tuesday to mark the 11th National Industry Day under the slogan "Improvement of Industrial Environment: Foundation of Sustainable Economy", Dhakal said industrialists and businesspeople face hassles as multiple government bodies perform the same tasks.
"We have many government institutions performing the same type of work. Instead of making the business environment easy and simple, complications and hassles are increasing. In this situation, while making the one‑window system effective, unnecessary institutions must be reduced," Dhakal said.
He said the country’s economic condition has become more complex after the September 8 and 9 protests and that priority must be given to the security of individuals and investment. He described recent policy reforms by the ministry, initiated by the FNCCI, as positive and emphasised the effective implementation of existing policies.
He also urged the continuation of the cash subsidy on exports, saying Nepal’s export trade remains unsatisfactory. "The decision to suspend cash subsidy has a serious impact on investment, exports, and employment. If there is economic pressure now, let's keep a record of it and arrange for payment later. But its continuity is necessary," Dhakal said. The Department of Industry issued a notice last October stating that applications would not be accepted in a way that creates additional liabilities in current fiscal year 2025/26.
On financing, Dhakal said domestic capital must be mobilised alongside foreign investment for infrastructure development and entrepreneurship. "Even before the government talked about an Alternative Development Finance Fund, to assist the government itself, we have established the Nepal Development Public Company with a capital of Rs 10 billion at FNCCI's initiative and started work. From this, capital required for large infrastructure development and other enterprises can be managed," he said.
He welcomed the government's move to establish a fund to encourage startups and innovation and said FNCCI is ready to collaborate on entrepreneurship development and job creation.
