'Nepal needs investment to reform export'
Summary
Nepal cannot reform its export sector without more domestic and foreign investment, Industry, Commerce and Supplies Minister Dipak Kumar Shah said in Kathmandu. Speakers at an EEC-Nepal event said the EU-India Free Trade Agreement could hurt some Nepali exports but also create opportunities in hydropower, quality certification and higher-value products.
Key Points
- Industry, Commerce and Supplies Minister Dipak Kumar Shah said Nepal must attract more domestic and foreign investment to reform its export sector.
- He called for lower production costs, better productivity, digital upgrades, stronger certification systems and easier investment procedures.
- EU Ambassador Charles Whiteley said Nepal can benefit by supplying intermediate goods and bankable hydropower projects, while exporters need predictable rules and efficient approvals.
- Speakers warned that the EU-India FTA could squeeze sectors like readymade garments and textiles, but hydropower and branded high-value products offer export opportunities.
