Nepal revives industrial security force to restore investor confidence
Summary
Nepal has revived plans for an Industrial Security Force and launched a Private Investment Protection and Promotion Strategy after years of attacks, vandalism and unrest hit factories, shops and other businesses. The government says the move is aimed at restoring investor confidence and creating a safer environment for private investment.
Key Points
- Nepal launched the Private Investment Protection and Promotion Strategy, which revives the idea of an Industrial Security Force to safeguard industrial and business establishments.
- The plan follows major damage to private-sector property during the Gen Z movement, the recent Tarai protest and earlier incidents of extortion, arson and vandalism.
- Business leaders say investor confidence remains weak and warn that implementation, not just policy announcements, will determine whether trust is restored.
- The strategy includes risk-based security measures, rapid-response teams, security focal persons, and possible legal and environmental amendments to support damaged businesses.
