Nepal Should Strengthen Economic Cooperation with India, Says FNCCI Chair Chandraprasad Dhakal

Kathmandu: Chandraprasad Dhakal, Chair of the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI), has emphasised the need to make Nepal–India economic cooperation more effective. Speaking at the opening of the “Second Indo–Nepal Trade Festival 2026” in New Delhi on Friday, he highlighted several key areas for enhancing bilateral economic engagement.

Chair Dhakal stressed the importance of facilitating smooth customs procedures, harmonising standards, strengthening digital trade systems, and improving access to finance and technology for small and medium enterprises. He noted that India is Nepal’s largest trading partner and a major source of investment, and that the open border, cultural ties, and strong people-to-people relations make the partnership unique.

Amid global economic uncertainty and supply chain disruptions, Dhakal underlined the need to further strengthen cooperation between the two neighbouring nations. He observed that India’s recent central budget priorities—focusing on infrastructure, digital connectivity, green energy, and the promotion of small and medium enterprises—could also create new opportunities for Nepal.

Highlighting Nepal’s abundant hydropower potential, Dhakal said electricity exports to India have already begun, and with adequate transmission lines and stable policies, Nepal could become a reliable partner in green energy.

He also pointed to Nepal’s tourism sector, which offers natural beauty, adventure, and spiritual destinations, and noted that investment opportunities in hotels, resorts, and cable car projects are expanding.

Chair Dhakal called on Indian investors to explore opportunities in Nepal across multiple sectors, including energy, tourism, industrial zones, special economic zones, cross-border logistics, agro-processing, pharmaceuticals, education, and healthcare.

He reaffirmed that Nepal’s private sector has consistently advocated for political stability and economic discipline, and that policy reforms are underway to maintain long-term investor confidence.

Describing the Indo–Nepal Trade Festival as more than a formal event, Dhakal said it serves as a platform to transform goodwill into tangible business partnerships. He urged Indian industrialists, entrepreneurs, and investors to advance collaboration in green energy, digital services, tourism, and manufacturing.

Chair Dhakal expressed confidence that, with political will, policy stability, and mutual trust, Nepal–India economic cooperation can reach new heights. The event was attended by high-level representatives, including Nepal’s Minister for Industry, Commerce and Supplies Anil Kumar Sinha, India’s Minister of Communications Jyotiraditya Scindia, Minister of Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, and Nepal’s Ambassador to India Shankar Prasad Sharma.