45th AGM of Nepal Foreign Trade Association Focuses on Policy Reform and Private Sector Support

The 45th Annual General Meeting of the Nepal Foreign Trade Association was held in Kathmandu, approving the association’s annual and financial reports along with various proposals. Ganesh Parajuli, leader of the Rastriya Swatantra Party and Member of Parliament, highlighted the government’s commitment to creating a business-friendly environment. He emphasized collaboration with the private sector for the upcoming Export-Import Act, online tax payments and refunds, and formalizing the informal economy to meet international compliance, including FATF requirements.

Parajuli also stressed that the government would regulate rather than control businesses and encouraged private sector engagement in policy-making through parliamentary committees. Industry leaders, including heads of the Nepal Chamber of Commerce, FNCCI, and NCCI, called for policy reforms, regulatory support, and coordinated efforts to promote production, exports, and economic stability. The meeting addressed issues such as illegal imports, duty adjustments, and fair trade practices to balance the Nepali and Indian markets, reaffirming the association’s commitment to advocate for the private sector.