CNI tells NPC to prioritize domestic production growth in 16th Plan

KATHMANDU: The Confederation of Nepalese Industries (CNI) has recommended that the government prioritize domestic production growth, import substitution, and job creation in the upcoming 16th Plan. According to the CNI, it made the suggestions based on a study that it conducted to identify sectors that should be prioritized in the 16th Plan.

CNI President Rajesh Kumar Agrawal handed over the study’s report to National Planning Commission (NPC) Vice Chairperson Dr. Min Bahadur Shrestha on Sunday. On the occasion, Agrawal said that the 16th Plan should focus on industrial development.

Among other recommendations, the CNI has advised the NPC to adopt an industrial development strategy, ensure policy stability, and promote the ‘Make in Nepal’ campaign to boost domestic production. The CNI has also proposed the removal of land-holding ceilings for industries.

Furthermore, the association has suggested that the NPC make necessary policy decisions so that government agencies are not compelled to award development projects to the lowest bidder, a practice that often results in low-quality work. It has also drawn the NPC’s attention to the need to control illegal transactions in border areas, sign double taxation avoidance agreements with major trade partners to boost exports, and prioritize the development of employment-oriented skill training programs.

In response to the CNI’s demands, Vice Chairperson Shrestha stated that the new periodic plan will focus on production, productivity, and employment. He emphasized that increasing production is the key to substituting imports.