Koshi Province Investment Summit: Rs 173 Billion Projects, Agriculture, Tourism, Energy Investment
2nd May 2025, Kathmandu
Koshi Province kicked off its first-ever investment summit on Thursday with a major announcement. The provincial government showcased 71 development projects totaling Rs 173.49 billion.
Koshi Province Investment Summit
The summit aims to attract both domestic and foreign investors. It focuses on eight major sectors, including agriculture, tourism, energy, infrastructure, IT, hospitality, industry, and waste management.
High-Value Projects Highlighted
The biggest project on the list is the Udaypur Clinker Plant with an investment of Rs 32 billion. Another major initiative is the Green Hydrogen and Chemical Fertilizer Project in Sunsari and Udaypur, also worth Rs 32 billion.
In the tourism sector, the Kanakai–Ilam–Sandakpur podway leads with a Rs 25 billion budget. Similarly, the Rs 12 billion Halesi podway and the Rs 5 billion Koshi podway aim to boost connectivity and tourism.
Infrastructure projects include a Rs 4.8 billion multipurpose complex in Biratnagar and a Rs 3 billion electric vehicle factory in Morang.
Agriculture and Agro-Based Industry
The province presented various agro-processing projects. These include a Rs 64 crore avocado farm in Dhankuta and a Rs 33 crore dairy facility in Ilam. Other plans cover coffee, turmeric, kiwi, and cardamom processing plants across eastern districts.
An Rs 18 crore churpi factory and a Rs 27 crore kiwifruit plant were also proposed.
Renewable Energy and IT Focus
Koshi is turning to clean energy. Proposed projects include the Rs 1.6 billion Barju Solar PV Project and mini hydropower plants in Solukhumbu.
The IT sector includes a Rs 250 million data center in Sunsari and a Rs 220 million digitization program in Morang.
Hospitality and Urban Development
To promote high-end tourism, Koshi proposed two five-star hotels in Biratnagar. The projects are valued at Rs 2.3 billion and Rs 1.75 billion, respectively.
A Rs 3 billion modern bus terminal in Kakarbhitta and a Rs 2 billion refreshment center in Sunsari are among the urban plans.
Waste Management Initiatives
Koshi is also tackling urban waste. Two solid waste management projects are planned: one in Mechinagar (Rs 500 million) and the other in Duhabi (Rs 100 million).
Policy Reforms to Attract Investment
To encourage investment, the provincial government amended eight major laws. These include acts on PPP, tourism, infrastructure, industry, and more. Further amendments to land-related laws are expected in the upcoming session.
Investor Participation and MoUs
So far, 20 foreign investors have joined the summit out of 45 consulted. The province plans to sign around 20 MoUs under public-private partnerships on the summit’s second day.
Chief Minister Hikmat Kumar Karki said the summit was delayed due to COVID-19 and post-election challenges. However, he noted strong investor interest after consistent efforts over the past two years.
The summit, inaugurated by former PM KP Sharma Oli, will continue with discussions on investment opportunities across the showcased sectors.
For more: Koshi Province Investment Summit