FNCCI President Dhakal: ESG Initiative For Nepal Sustainable Business Growth & Global Relevance

21st June 2025, Kathmandu

President of the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI), Mr. Chandra Prasad Dhakal, has stated that Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) practices are essential for a sustainable future. He expressed this view while speaking at a workshop organized by FNCCI in Kathmandu on Friday.

FNCCI President Dhakal ESG Initiative

Speaking on the occasion, President Dhakal emphasized that ESG is no longer just a trend but a necessary path toward a sustainable future in business. He added that for emerging economies like Nepal, ESG represents an opportunity to unlock new doors of growth and global relevance. “Awareness about ESG standards is increasingly important in the current context. ESG is crucial for risk management. This project, initiated in Nepal, will help local businesses align with international standards,” he remarked.

Although FNCCI has been working separately in the areas of environmental sustainability, social initiatives, and good governance, President Dhakal stated that the organization now plans to integrate all these efforts through a unified ESG framework moving forward.

He also acknowledged the positive steps taken by Nepal Rastra Bank in adopting the Environmental and Social Risk Management (ESRM) Guidelines. Furthermore, he noted that the amendments made by the government in over 30 laws are expected to encourage both domestic and foreign investment.

The workshop also featured an ESG-related survey, which will be used to identify the need for training and capacity-building programs. Following this event, another ESG workshop has also been conducted in Koshi Province.

The workshop saw the participation of key stakeholders, private sector representatives, policymakers, and international partners, all of whom emphasized the need to integrate environmental, social, and governance elements comprehensively in future initiatives.

About ESG

ESG stands for Environmental, Social, and Governance. It is a way to measure how responsibly a company operates beyond profits.

Environmental factors include how a company affects nature, such as reducing pollution and saving energy.
Social factors look at how a company treats its workers, customers, and communities, focusing on fairness and human rights.
Governance involves how a company is run, including leadership, ethics, and transparency.

ESG helps investors find companies that act responsibly and sustainably. It also reduces risks and builds trust with stakeholders. Strong ESG practices often lead to better long-term success.

About FNCCI

The Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) is Nepal’s largest private sector organization. Established in 1965, it represents businesses and industries across the country. FNCCI plays a key role in promoting economic and social development through private sector growth.

Its vision is to lead Nepal’s economic progress. The mission focuses on helping Nepalese businesses compete globally. FNCCI works to protect business rights, support an open market economy, and foster cooperation with national and international partners.

The organization drives industrial development, builds strong business relations, and advises the government. It also raises awareness on important issues like corporate governance, social responsibility, and environmental protection.

FNCCI has over 125 district chambers, 124 sector associations, nearly 1,800 members, and 20 bi-national chambers. It offers services such as trade promotion, investment support, joint ventures, training programs, and research. FNCCI actively connects Nepal’s business community to national and global opportunities.

For more:- FNCCI President Dhakal ESG Initiative