NCC President Urges Diplomatic Missions to Act as Trade

Nepalese Chambers of Commerce (NCC) President Chandra Prasad Dhakal has called for Nepali diplomatic missions abroad to take a more active role in promoting trade, investment, industry and tourism.

Speaking at an interaction with students of the Master’s in International Affairs, Economy and Diplomacy at the Asian Institute of Diplomacy and International Affairs, Dhakal said economic diplomacy should focus on export promotion, attracting foreign investment, expanding industries and finding new international markets.

He said Nepali embassies and diplomatic missions should maintain direct links with investors, businesses and trade communities in their respective countries. He also emphasized using digital platforms and the knowledge, skills, capital and networks of Nepalis living abroad to support the domestic economy.

Dhakal said Nepal’s graduation from the Least Developed Country (LDC) category should be addressed by improving competitiveness and expanding trade relations. He noted that India accounts for around 65% of Nepal’s total trade, while China accounts for about 15%, and stressed the need to expand trade and exports to other international markets as well.

He also called for measures to reduce production costs and improve the competitiveness of Nepali products through better access to electricity, infrastructure and finance, along with appropriate tax policies and export incentives.

On remittances, Dhakal said funds sent by Nepalis working abroad should be directed toward productive sectors rather than consumption alone. He also stressed skill development and certification to improve the earnings and international competitiveness of Nepali workers.

Dhakal further said stronger economic capacity would help Nepal present its national interests more effectively in international forums. He called for greater coordination among the government, private sector and diplomatic missions to support production, investment, exports and employment.