Minister Bhandari calls for policy reforms and tech-friendly laws to boost industrial growth

Dhangadhi: Minister for Industry, Commerce and Supplies, Damodar Bhandari, has emphasized the urgent need for policy reforms and the formulation of technology-friendly laws to address legal hurdles hindering industrial development in Nepal.

Speaking at a stakeholder discussion on the draft industrial policy held in Dhangadhi, Minister Bhandari stated that although the private sector is eager to invest, legal complications have obstructed the process, resulting in the accumulation of investable capital.

He cited the example of the Daiji-Chela Industrial Zone in Kanchanpur, which has remained stalled for a decade due to such legal barriers. “It has been 10 years since the construction process of the Daiji-Chela Industrial Zone began. But due to legal complications, it has not been possible to move forward. Nine hundred bighas of land are ready,” he said.

Highlighting the government’s focus on industrial development, Minister Bhandari said that 31 special points related to industry and commerce have been included in the policy and program for the upcoming fiscal year. He further noted that efforts are underway to reform the Companies Act, establish special economic zones, and expand industrial infrastructure.