Nepal's Graduation from LDC Status Postponed to 2029
Summary
Nepal’s graduation from the UN list of Least Developed Countries has been postponed until November 24, 2029 after the General Assembly approved an extension of the preparation period. Officials say the delay is needed to strengthen economic and institutional readiness, while experts warn repeated extensions could hurt Nepal’s credibility.
Key Points
- The United Nations General Assembly has extended Nepal’s LDC graduation preparation period until November 24, 2029.
- Nepal had initially aimed to graduate in 2018, but the deadline was delayed after the 2015 earthquake and again because of COVID-19.
- The government says more time is needed to improve economic growth, production capacity and institutional preparedness before graduation.
- Former officials warn that repeated extensions may damage Nepal’s international credibility, even if they do not cause direct economic loss.
