On February 27, 2025, the Embassy of Nepal hosted an interaction program focusing on the trade and investment potential between Nepal and the United Kingdom. The event aimed to explore ways to promote Nepali goods and services in the UK and increase the flow of UK Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) into Nepal.

His Excellency Mr. Chandra Kumar Ghimire, the Ambassador of Nepal to the UK, highlighted the Government of Nepal’s efforts to attract FDI, especially in green projects, hydropower, infrastructure, financial services, and manufacturing. He also emphasized the UK’s prominent position in global FDI and the financial vibrancy of London, stressing the immense opportunities for UK investment in Nepal. Ambassador Ghimire further discussed the ongoing improvements in Nepal’s trade and investment policies and legal frameworks, urging British investors and businesses to consider Nepal as their next investment destination. He called for stronger Business-to-Business (B2B) and Government-to-Government (G2G) mechanisms and committed to providing facilitation for FDI and trade initiatives.

The event saw a live interaction with approximately 50 businessmen and investors, where participants raised concerns about the absence of crucial laws, such as the Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA), the need for high-level political visits, and the need for better facilitation in trade and investment matters.

In his address, H.E. Mr. Rob Fenn, British Ambassador to Nepal, spoke about the longstanding relationship between Nepal and the UK. He acknowledged the steps the Government of Nepal has taken to improve the business climate, including hosting investment summits and the Sagarmatha Sambaad, and highlighted the potential for collaboration in higher education, export finance, and FDI. He also pointed to key sectors like tourism, wellness tourism, agro-processing, renewable energy, and IT as areas ripe for investment from both nations.

Ms. Lesley Craig, Head of the South Asia Regional Department at the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, commended Nepal’s growing IT sector and stressed the importance of regular updates on Nepal’s economic reforms to strengthen the economic partnership between the two countries. She also emphasized the need for inclusive growth, particularly the involvement of women in business.

Ms. Tamanna Ali from the Department of Business and Trade shared insights into how the DBT is working to align business priorities between the UK and partner countries.

Concluding the program, Ambassador Ghimire underscored the importance of advancing the draft of the DTAA, highlighted the significant Nepali diaspora in the UK as a valuable asset, and encouraged business leaders from the diaspora to help connect Nepal and the UK through various business initiatives for mutual benefit.

Source:Nepali Embassy of London