FNCCI President Dhakal pushes for consensus leadership, Calls for policy reforms to boost private sector

KATHMANDU: President of the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Chandra Prasad Dhakal, has called for the next leadership of the federation to be selected through consensus, emphasizing that unity within Nepal’s largest private sector body is critical for institutional strength and economic influence.

Speaking at the 59th Establishment Day of the Lalitpur Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Lalitpur on Wednesday, Dhakal said that leadership chosen through agreement and collaboration would reinforce internal cohesion and enhance the federation’s ability to represent the private sector effectively.

Consensus Leadership Key to Institutional Stability

Dhakal stressed that as a common platform of Nepal’s private sector, the FNCCI must reflect unity at the leadership level. “Consensus-based leadership will build a strong foundation for institutional unity and make the federation more effective,” he said, amid growing internal dynamics ahead of upcoming leadership selection.

Lalitpur’s Potential as a Hub for Indigenous Products

Highlighting Lalitpur’s economic potential, Dhakal urged stakeholders to position the city as a center for indigenous and traditional products, leveraging its rich heritage of craftsmanship and local industries.

He emphasized that while Nepal has strong potential to expand exports of traditional goods, scaling both quality and production volume is essential to compete in international markets. “Promoting local skills and products can significantly boost exports, but aligning them with global standards and increasing production capacity is crucial,” he noted.

Investment, Technology, and Market Expansion

Dhakal called for increased investment in productive sectors, adoption of modern technology, and expansion of market access to drive export-led growth. He highlighted the need for coordinated efforts between local governments, the private sector, and the federal government to strengthen the entire value chain—from production to market distribution.

He also praised the role of the Lalitpur Chamber of Commerce and Industry in promoting entrepreneurship, job creation, and local economic development.

Policy Reforms Critical for Industrial Growth

Underscoring structural challenges, Dhakal said policy reforms are indispensable to create a conducive industrial environment in Nepal. He pointed to the need for:

Investment-friendly policies

Simplified tax systems

Infrastructure development

Reduction in bureaucratic hurdles

He further stressed that the government must take the private sector’s concerns seriously and ensure meaningful participation of businesses in policy-making processes.

One Voice for Stronger Private Sector Influence

Dhakal emphasized that the private sector must speak with one unified voice to effectively influence national economic policies. He noted that fragmentation weakens advocacy efforts, especially at a time when Nepal is seeking to attract investment and boost economic growth.

Statute Amendment to Strengthen Representation

The FNCCI president also revealed that the federation’s statute has been amended to incorporate demands and feedback from district and municipal levels. The revised framework aims to make the organization more inclusive and representative, particularly by increasing participation of local chambers and women entrepreneurs.

He expressed confidence that the reforms would further strengthen the institutional capacity of FNCCI and align it with the evolving needs of Nepal’s business community.

The remarks come at a crucial time as Nepal’s private sector seeks greater policy clarity, stability, and global competitiveness amid a shifting political and economic landscape.