FNCCI, NICCI hold talks to strengthen bilateral economic ties, prioritise energy, investment

KATHMANDU: Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) and Nepal-India Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NICCI) met in Kathmandu on Wednesday to strengthen bilateral economic ties, focusing primarily on energy, investment and trade.

During the discussion, delegations led by FNCCI President Anjan Shrestha and NICCI President Sunil KC prioritised energy cooperation. They discussed the target of exporting 10,000 megawatts of electricity within 10 years, highlighting the need for private sector investment and the timely development of transmission infrastructure.

To expand commercial engagement, NICCI proposed an annual Nepal-India chief executive officer roundtable, a regular investment summit in New Delhi and a joint pavilion at the Vibrant Gujarat Summit. Meanwhile, FNCCI President Shrestha pointed out opportunities for partnerships with Indian states such as Uttar Pradesh and Bihar in the manufacturing and food sectors.

Seeking stronger institutional coordination, NICCI requested a permanent vice president seat within FNCCI for its ex-officio president and a leadership role in the Nepal-India Joint Business Forum. Shrestha indicated these requests would undergo appropriate institutional review.

The chambers also explored expanding tourism linkages with destinations like Varanasi, alongside emerging opportunities in information technology and artificial intelligence.