PM Dahal calls for more Chinese investment in Nepal

KATHMANDU: The governments and private sectors of Nepal and China have expressed commitment to more cooperation for increasing Chinese investment in Nepal, promoting tourism, and boosting Nepal’s exports to China.

Speaking at the Nepal-China Business Summit in Beijing, Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal stated that Nepal’s business environment is improving. “Since many sectors in Nepal offer attractive investment opportunities, I request Chinese investors to consider investing in Nepal,” he added.

The summit was jointly organized by the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) and the China Council for Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT), according to a press release issued by FNCCI.

Dahal also emphasized the importance of collaboration between the government and the private sector, noting that the private sector plays a vital role in the economy. He assured that the government is committed to creating an enabling environment for stronger cooperation with the private sector. He also expressed concern about the rising trade deficit with China.

“China can be a big market for Nepali agricultural products,” he said, calling for the facilitation of agricultural exports to China.

Li Fei, Vice Minister of China’s Ministry of Commerce, said that China has been increasing its investments in Nepal. He expressed willingness to further enhance cooperation in tourism and agriculture.

Also speaking on the occasion, FNCCI President Chandra Prasad Dhakal said Nepal possesses significant investment prospects, especially in sectors like hydropower, tourism, manufacturing, and information technology. “Given the growing trade volume between the two countries, there is a need for a Chinese bank in Nepal. It could be a bank branch or a joint venture with Nepali bans,” he added.

Representatives from 120 Chinese companies participated in the summit, along with 50 Nepali businesspeople and officials from private sector representative bodies such as FNCCI, Confederation of Nepalese Industries, and Nepal Chamber of Commerce