20th April 2025, Kathmandu
FNCCI President Chandra Prasad Dhakal has urged Nepalis abroad, including Non-Resident Nepalese (NRNs), to invest a portion of their income in Nepal. He assured that the private sector will create a favorable environment for good returns.
Non-Resident Nepalese Investment Nepal
He was addressing a New Year 2082 greetings exchange program in the UAE, organized by the Nepali Janasamparka Samiti.
Nepal Has Untapped Potential
Dhakal highlighted Nepal’s vast investment opportunities. “Many sectors remain unexplored,” he said. He criticized the trend of seeing Nepal only through a negative lens, especially in comparison to foreign countries.
“Many people abroad compare Nepal with developed countries and conclude that Nepal lacks opportunities. But if you invest and work as hard here as you do abroad, the results can be remarkable,” he added.
Recent Legal Reforms Welcomed
Dhakal appreciated the government’s recent efforts to improve the investment climate. “More than two dozen laws have been amended to attract investments. This happened mainly through private sector efforts, especially by FNCCI,” he said.
He stated that his leadership has focused on making Nepal investment-friendly and attracting foreign direct investment (FDI). “We’ve made this our top priority,” he noted.
Collective Effort Needed for Development
Dhakal emphasized the role of migrant workers and NRNs in national development. “Even if you invest a small part of your income in Nepal, it will help increase production, employment, and revenue,” he said.
“You’ve done well abroad. Now it’s time to contribute back home,” he told the audience. He added that such investments would also support their future when they return to Nepal.
A Personal Journey of Success
Sharing his own story, Dhakal said he came from Baglung and now leads Nepal’s largest private sector organization. Through his companies, over 25,000 people have gained direct employment.
“With hard work, dedication, and honesty, there are countless opportunities in Nepal,” he said.
Nepal Development Company Launched
Dhakal announced the formation of Nepal Development Company with a capital of NPR 10 billion. This initiative aims to gather capital from Nepalis at home and abroad.
“This company will invest in hydropower, tourism, industries, and other high-potential areas,” he said. He urged migrant workers and NRNs to participate in this opportunity.
Challenging Wrong Narratives
Dhakal said it’s time to reject two common ideas—that Nepal lacks potential and that only foreign investment can develop major projects.
“Both are wrong,” he stated. “If we collect small domestic investments, we can raise equity to secure loans and build big projects ourselves.”
According to him, with NPR 10 billion in equity, the company can borrow up to 80 percent and invest over NPR 40 billion in large infrastructure.
Strong Message of Unity
He concluded with a strong message: “Nepal’s development is possible if we all work together—no matter where we live.”
Other Speakers Present
Health and Population Minister Pradeep Paudel and Nepali Ambassador to the UAE Tej Bahadur Chhetri also addressed the event.
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