CNI Leaders Meet Prachanda, Home Minister on Nepal Economy, Trade
22nd July 2025, Kathmandu
The Confederation of Nepalese Industries (CNI), under its newly elected President Birendra Raj Pandey, recently held significant discussions with key political figures, including former Prime Minister and Chairperson of the Maoist Centre, Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’, and current Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak. These meetings underscore the private sector’s crucial role in shaping Nepal’s economic trajectory.
CNI Leaders Meet Prachanda
During a productive exchange with former Prime Minister Prachanda, the veteran leader emphasized that strengthening Nepal’s economy is inherently linked to robust collaboration with the private sector. He reiterated his consistent prioritization of private sector concerns, whether in or out of government. Prachanda further commended the CNI for its evolution into a highly capable institution, particularly noting its reliance on research-driven and fact-based policy recommendations.
CNI President Birendra Raj Pandey articulated the organization’s ambitious vision: to propel Nepal’s economy to USD 100 billion and achieve double-digit economic growth within the next decade. He revealed that preliminary studies point to eight key sectors crucial for reaching this target, urging the government and political parties to enact necessary legal and policy reforms to align with this ambitious goal. This vision aligns with CNI’s ongoing advocacy for a vibrant, resilient, and globally competitive industrial sector in Nepal.
In a separate, vital discussion with Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak, the CNI delegation pressed for decisive action against illegal cross-border trade. This illicit activity severely impacts domestic industries by creating unfair competition and significantly reduces government revenue, hindering Nepal’s economic progress.
In response, Home Minister Lekhak assured the CNI that the Ministry is committed to tackling unauthorized imports. He indicated that upcoming secretary-level meetings between Nepal and India would include discussions on specific measures to prevent such illegal trade. Additionally, Minister Lekhak affirmed the Ministry’s dedication to fostering a more welcoming environment for tourists. Inspector General of Police Deepak Thapa was also present, signaling the security forces’ involvement in these efforts.
The CNI delegation included outgoing President Rajesh Kumar Agrawal, Vice Presidents Raj Bahadur Shah, Hem Raj Dhakal, Bhim Ghimire, Gokul Bhandari, Executive Member Sandeep Sharda, and Director General Dr. Ghanshyam Ojha, showcasing a unified front from the industrial body. These high-level meetings highlight the private sector’s proactive engagement in driving policy dialogues essential for Nepal’s economic prosperity and sustainable industrial development.
For more: CNI Leaders Meet Prachanda
