NICCI, BCCI agree to cooperate on trade, transit, tourism

KATHMANDU: Nepal‑India Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NICCI) and the Bhaktapur Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) held an interaction meeting on Sunday to explore cooperation in trade, transit facilitation and tourism promotion.

Welcoming the NICCI delegation, BCCI President Roshani Maiya Dhaubanja introduced the chamber and highlighted Bhaktapur’s economic and cultural strengths, describing the city as “rich in cultural and religious heritage, with significant potential for tourism‑led development.”

“BCCI is actively focusing on the promotion of agriculture, handicrafts and tourism,” Dhaubanja said. “Alongside these sectors, we are also working to preserve and promote traditional Nepali products such as the Bhadgaunle Topi and Bhaktapur’s famous curd, Juju Dhau.”

NICCI President Sunil KC briefed participants on NICCI’s role in facilitating bilateral trade and encouraged closer engagement between the two chambers, particularly on export‑related issues. “India is not only Nepal’s gateway for exports but also the largest market for Nepali goods and services,” KC said. “We invite BCCI members to consult with NICCI whenever they face challenges in exports. By continuing dialogue and complementing each other’s efforts, we can work together towards our common goal of promoting Nepal.”

BCCI members sought NICCI’s support in trade and transit facilitation, especially on customs procedures related to handicraft exports and the import of goods from India, and requested assistance in promoting Bhaktapur’s tourism assets, including temples such as Changu Narayan and Doleshwor Mahadev.

Responding to these concerns, NICCI Vice President Kunal Kayal reaffirmed NICCI’s commitment to collaboration. “NICCI is ready to join hands with BCCI to support capacity building and help promote Bhaktapur’s products and tourism potential,” he said.

NICCI General Secretary Rajan Sharma also pledged technical support, particularly training on trade and transit issues. “We are committed to assisting BCCI through training and knowledge‑sharing to help address trade and transit challenges,” Sharma said.

The meeting concluded with both chambers agreeing to work closely on trade, transit and tourism initiatives, recognising collaboration as a key driver for sustainable economic growth and entrepreneurship development in Nepal.