Himal Press 
KATHMANDU: Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal has urged investors to reap benefits from a plethora of opportunities that Nepal offers.
Inaugurating the 2024 Nepal Investment Summit 2024 in Kathmandu on Sunday, he insisted that Nepal is a promising country for investment from legal, geographical and strategic perspectives.
Affirming Nepal’s full commitment to a liberal economic policy, he informed that an investment-friendly environment has been created in the country. Mentioning the continuous efforts to facilitate investors, industrialists, entrepreneurs, and businesses, Prime Minister Dahal shared that the government recently amended eight laws related to business and investment to remove any obstacles in doing business in Nepal. “This will increase the confidence of investors looking to invest in Nepal,” he added
Highlighting the prevalence of peace, stability, and a conducive environment for economic development and prosperity in Nepal, Dahal clarified that the federal governance system ensures a balanced development approach, promoting nationwide socio-economic transformation. “Nepal offers a robust regulatory framework, double taxation avoidance, protection of intellectual property rights, competitive corporate tax rates, and many other incentives for foreign investors,” Dahal said. “The government has recently approved the framework for a bilateral investment aimed at protecting and promoting bilateral investment.”
Dahal expressed confidence that the liberal policies adopted by Nepal will encourage foreign investment in priority sectors. He highlighted Nepal’s skilled workforce and low labor costs as attractions for international investors. “The provision of non-discriminatory treatment for both foreign direct investors and national investors, along with the assurance of being able to repatriate profits in foreign currency, further enhances the appeal of investing in Nepal,” he added.
Noting that over 60% of Nepal’s population falls within the working-age group, Prime Minister Dahal stated that the rapidly expanding middle-class population presents immense potential for investors.
“Nepal offers investment opportunities in high-value crop production, tourism, agriculture, manufacturing, information technology, garments, agro-processing, and infrastructure,” Dahal said. “The abundant potential for hydropower production reflects Nepal’s commitment to renewable and clean energy supply. The rich cultural heritage and natural beauty indicate strong potential for the tourism sector.”
The Prime Minister said that the power trade agreement with India, cooperation and understanding with China, and an MoU for electricity export with Bangladesh have established adequate infrastructure for investment in Nepal’s hydropower sector. “This clearly demonstrates ample opportunities for investing in Nepal’s hydropower sector. The under-construction transborder transmission line connecting India and China will facilitate energy exchange within the region,” he added.
Expressing confidence that the projects showcased at the summit will yield tangible benefits for both Nepal and potential investors, Dahal stated that Nepal’s goal of achieving sustainable and high economic growth in the coming decade will be fulfilled. He expressed hope for collaborative efforts to propel Nepal towards economic transformation and prosperity.
