ICAN Launches GAIN Project to Promote Nepal as Global Accounting Outsourcing Hub
KATHMANDU: The Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nepal (ICAN) on Thursday launched a new initiative aimed at positioning Nepal as a competitive destination for global accounting and financial outsourcing services.
The project, titled Global Accounting Initiative in Nepal (GAIN), was unveiled at a programme held in Kathmandu. ICAN said the initiative seeks to enhance the international competitiveness of Nepal’s accounting services while generating employment and export income for the country.
According to the institute, the project aims to brand Nepal as a reliable outsourcing hub, build strategic international partnerships and create sustainable job opportunities. ICAN has set a target of generating more than 50,000 jobs annually within five years and over 150,000 jobs within a decade. The institute estimates the initiative could generate around Rs 80 billion through service exports over time.
The GAIN project focuses on strengthening regulatory and institutional frameworks for accounting outsourcing, developing secure digital infrastructure, and training human resources to meet international standards. It also plans to promote innovation and entrepreneurship through outsourcing hubs, digital platforms and incubation centres.
Speaking at the launch, ICAN President Nil Bahadur Saru Magar said the project would be implemented as a regular programme from the next fiscal year. He noted that countries such as India, Bangladesh, Vietnam and the Philippines have established strong positions in the global accounting services market, adding that Nepal could compete if skills development and policy clarity are prioritised.
ICAN said the project would target potential markets including the United Kingdom, Australia, the United States and the European Union through digital promotion and engagement with Nepali diaspora communities. Plans also include introducing internationally recognised accounting software, specialised certification programmes, a national talent registration system and outsourcing-focused academic curricula.
The institute said it expects the initiative to support policy reforms, including tax incentives, clearer VAT guidelines, streamlined foreign exchange procedures, stronger data protection laws and provisions allowing Nepali firms to establish overseas branches.
ICAN believes these measures will help create a conducive environment for the growth of Nepal’s accounting outsourcing industry and strengthen its presence in global service markets.
