9 August 2024, Kathmandu
In a recent discussion on inclusive economic empowerment at the BIMSTEC Business Summit 2024 in New Delhi, India.Bhawani Rana, former president of the Federation of Nepal Chamber of Commerce and Industry, proposed the BIMSTEC CCI Women Empowerment Establishment of the BIMSTEC Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI) to focus on capacity building and policy advocacy for women entrepreneurs.
BIMSTEC CCI Women Empowerment
Rana emphasized the need for collaboration between government and private sectors to enhance women’s access to finance, skill development, education, and mentoring. She highlighted that the CCI should organize workshops, seminars, and training to improve the professional skills of women entrepreneurs from Nepal and other member countries, thereby addressing emerging challenges in economic inclusion.
According to Rana, economic inclusion can significantly boost local and national economies, with gender equality contributing an estimated US$12 trillion to global growth by the end of next year. She urged both government and private entities to take proactive measures to eliminate barriers to women’s economic participation and to implement necessary policy interventions.
The proposed BIMSTEC CCI aims to expand trade and investment opportunities, allowing Nepali entrepreneurs to showcase their products and services, attract foreign investment, and access new markets through trade fairs, business forums, and investment conferences.
Rana underscored the importance of Nepalese women entrepreneurs’ involvement in the BIMSTEC CCI, noting that it would provide a valuable platform for networking, sharing best practices, and accessing specialized resources and training. She believes that active participation in BIMSTEC CCI will advance regional economic integration, create new business opportunities, and support the sustainable development of Nepal and the broader BIMSTEC region.
About BIMSTEC CCI Aims
The BIMSTEC Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI) aims to promote women’s empowerment within the BIMSTEC region by focusing on capacity building and policy advocacy. This initiative, supported by leaders like Bhawani Rana, seeks to enhance women entrepreneurs’ access to finance, education, and mentoring. Through workshops, seminars, and training sessions, the BIMSTEC CCI will address economic inclusion challenges and support women in expanding their business opportunities. By fostering collaboration between government and private sectors, the CCI will contribute to regional economic growth and gender equality.