CIM delegation urges ministers to act on industry concerns

KATHMANDU: A delegation from Chamber of Industries Morang (CIM) met Finance Minister Rameshore Prasad Khanal, Minister for Industry, Commerce and Supplies Anil Kumar Sinha and Minister for Labour, Employment and Social Security Rajendra Singh Bhandari on Monday.

During the meeting, the CIM delegation presented a range of problems and recommendations for the industrial and business sector. CIM President Nand Kishor Rathi said the government must boost the morale of the private sector with clear, positive and reliable messages, recognising the sector’s contribution to the country’s economic, industrial and social development. He said simplification of procedural complexities, guarantees of peace and security, and the creation of an investment‑friendly environment were essential for the smooth operation of industry.

Rathi said the ministers received CIM’s suggestions positively and indicated that items that could be implemented immediately would be taken forward as soon as possible, while policy matters would be noted for the next government.

The delegation urged immediate steps to restore confidence in the private sector and to ensure electricity supply during the approaching dry season, including the prompt completion of the under‑construction substation in Barju, Sunsari, and repair of transmission lines along the Sunsari‑Morang‑Katahari industrial corridor.

CIM also called for the commercial operation of the Biratnagar cargo railway service, with an immediate revision of handling fees at railway yards; the restart and completion of the Postal Highway section in the Katahari area of Morang; and maximum use of domestic products by public entities.

Other demands included the continuation and prompt reopening of the cash subsidy scheme for exports, increased capital and public expenditure to stimulate the market, and amendments to provisions of the new Customs Act 2082 — which came into force on 6 December — that the CIM warned could have long‑term negative effects on industry.

The delegation pressed for simplification of procedures across government services, including VAT and tax processes, business registration and renewal, and bonded‑warehouse registration and renewal, to make them simple, quick and accessible for businesses.

The delegation led by CIM President Rathi included immediate past president Rakesh Surana, senior vice‑president Bholeshwor Dulal, vice‑presidents Surendra Golchha and Bipin Kabra, executive committee members Santosh Kumar Bhagat, Ukesh Agrawal and Jayendra Sharma, and Director General Chudamani Bhattarai.