17th February 2025, kathmandu
An interaction program was held on the 2nd Falgun 2081 (February 14, 2025) in Butwal, Rupandehi. It was organized by the NADA Automobile Association of Nepal in collaboration with the Lumbini Automobile Association of Nepal.
NADA Butwal meeting 2025
The event brought together the presidents of regional associations from NADA and industry representatives. They gathered to discuss key issues facing Nepal’s automobile sector.
Concerns Raised by Stakeholders
During the program, institutional association representatives shared several key concerns. They pointed out the lack of recognition for businesses that pay taxes and the growing number of automobile technicians crossing borders, which harms local businesses. Attendees also highlighted that although banks claim to offer loans, entrepreneurs often find it difficult to access credit.
Additionally, issues with license distribution at regional transport offices, outdated valuation processes at customs, and fines imposed under market monitoring practices were discussed. The sector’s challenges were exacerbated by the rise in counterfeit automobile parts and unaddressed concerns over open borders and outdated stock in the market.
Government’s Response to Industry Demands
NADA President Karan Chaudhary addressed these concerns and assured that the government had started to listen. He highlighted the government’s recent actions through ordinances that addressed many of the association’s demands. Chaudhary mentioned that NADA had been continuously urging the government to revise the reference price list to keep it aligned with current market trends. He also revealed that discussions were held with the Prime Minister’s office and relevant ministries to ensure that the issues affecting the sector were taken seriously.
International Developments and Regional Cooperation
President Chaudhary also discussed the upcoming cross-border vehicle agreement between Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, and Nepal. He participated in a meeting regarding the agreement and expressed NADA’s concerns about its potential negative effects on Nepal’s automobile industry. Furthermore, Chaudhary shared information about an agreement signed in New Delhi between NADA, the All India Motor Vehicles Association, and the Asian Road Transport Development Council, aimed at addressing mobility issues in the region.
Event Concludes with Gratitude and Continued Collaboration
Lumbini Automobile Association of Nepal President Ganesh Bhattarai welcomed attendees, while NADA General Secretary Surendra Kumar Upreti moderated the event. NADA Vice President Rajan Babu Shrestha delivered the vote of thanks. The event was also attended virtually by key NADA members, including Vice Presidents Teja Narayan Sah and Krishna Prasad Shrestha, and central committee members like Navaraj Bhusal and Prakash Kapuri.
Strengthening Industry Connections
The interaction reinforced the importance of NADA’s continued engagement with regional associations to address the automobile sector’s challenges. NADA aims to organize more programs like this in the future. The event also served as a precursor to the 4th Annual General Meeting of the Lumbini Automobile Association, scheduled for 3rd Falgun 2081 (February 15, 2025).
For more: NADA Butwal meeting 2025