Kathmandu, Nepal – 11 January 2025
The second meeting of the Nepal–India Joint Business Forum (JBF) concluded successfully in Chandragiri, Kathmandu, with representatives from both countries agreeing to collaborate on enhancing trade, investment, and connectivity. The high-level meeting was part of the ongoing Nepal-India Commerce Secretary-level discussions and underscored the growing economic ties between the two neighbors.
Photo Source: FNCCI
Key Highlights of the Meeting:
1. Commitments to Address Trade Barriers
Nepal and India committed to removing non-tariff barriers that hinder trade, including easing the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) certification process for Nepali exports. There was a consensus on expanding Nepal's access to key Indian ports, including Mundra, Dhamra, and Jawaharlal Nehru Port.
2. Cross-Border Connectivity Boost
Discussions focused on improving connectivity between the two nations by linking Indian cities with Nepal’s Bhairahawa and Pokhara international airports, and enhancing road and rail infrastructure to streamline cross-border trade.
3. Clean Energy Cooperation
Both sides agreed to collaborate on hydropower and renewable energy projects, including solar and wind energy. Nepal’s growing hydropower potential was a central topic, with India pledging to facilitate the smooth supply of essential materials for such projects.
4. Strengthening Agriculture and Technology
Key agreements included removing quotas on agricultural products, providing access to advanced seeds and technology, and supporting the commercialization of medicinal plants. Cooperation on digital technologies and startups also featured prominently in the agenda.
5. Tourism and Infrastructure Development
The Forum discussed strategies to promote tourism through better air connectivity and the development of robust road and rail links. Additionally, the importance of facilitating cross-border investment to boost tourism infrastructure was emphasized.
Handing Over of Agreements
The outcomes of the meeting were handed over to the commerce secretaries of both countries. Indian Commerce Secretary Sunil Barthwal and Nepalese Commerce Secretary Govinda Bahadur Karki received the agreements from the JBF Chairs, Bhawani Rana and N. Sunil Kumar.
Voices from the Forum:
Speaking at the event, FNCCI President Chandra Prasad Dhakal highlighted the immense potential for economic cooperation between Nepal and India and urged both governments to prioritize policy reforms.
Nepal’s Minister for Industry, Commerce, and Supplies, Damodar Bhandari, reiterated India’s status as Nepal’s largest trading partner and called for the timely implementation of the Forum’s agreements. Indian Ambassador to Nepal, Naveen Srivastava, pledged India’s support in addressing economic challenges and facilitating trade.
Next Steps
The JBF agreed to hold its next meeting in New Delhi, India, to review progress and explore further avenues for cooperation.
With a focus on actionable outcomes and mutual benefit, this meeting marks a significant step in strengthening Nepal-India relations across trade, investment, and connectivity.
Ecosphere News will continue to monitor and report on the developments stemming from this pivotal collaboration.
