Nepal Chamber of Commerce and Sri Lankan Ambassador Discuss Trade Facilitation and Air Connectivity

A delegation from the Nepal Chamber of Commerce held discussions with Sri Lanka’s Ambassador to Nepal, Ruwanthi Delpitiya, focusing on strengthening bilateral trade and expanding air connectivity. Despite the long-standing diplomatic, cultural, and religious ties between the two nations, annual bilateral trade remains low at an average of just USD 2.5 million. Nepal imports goods worth USD 1.40 million from Sri Lanka, but exports only around USD 0.70 million.

During the meeting, the Chamber proposed enhancing two-way trade through improved air services, increased flights, and cooperation in sectors like agriculture, hydropower, ICT, digital trade, and infrastructure. They suggested operating a weekly direct Sri Lanka–Lumbini flight to attract Buddhist pilgrims and requested visa-free entry for Nepali tourists traveling to Sri Lanka. Ambassador Delpitiya expressed her commitment to promoting trade facilitation and invited the Chamber to participate in the upcoming international trade fair in Sri Lanka.