The demand of NRNs (Non-Resident Nepalis) to create an investment-friendly environment in Nepal by removing legal obstacles.

The demand to provide citizenship as per the provisions of the constitution.

Investment Environment in Nepal: NRNs Demand Legal Reforms and Citizenship as per Constitution

Assurance from Industry Minister to Shift Processes Online

Non-Resident Nepalis (NRNs) have emphasized the need for clear investment laws and citizenship provisions as per the constitution to foster a favorable investment climate in Nepal.  

During the second day of the 16th European Regional Conference, participants drew the Nepali government's attention to the necessity of political stability and a conducive investment environment.  

At the conference held in Malta, attendees raised their concerns and queries with Nepal’s Industry Minister, Damodar Bhandari.  

Key Demands and Concerns Raised by NRNs:

1. Political Stability and Infrastructure Development

   - Dr. Sunil Shah, Coordinator of the NRN Health Committee, stressed that political stability is crucial for investment, noting that Nepal still lacks adequate infrastructure development.  

2. Investment Beyond Traditional Sectors

   - NRN Secretary Swatantra Pratap Shah argued that merely having an investment-friendly environment is not enough. He pointed out that investment opportunities exist even during crises, citing examples of businesses that thrived during the conflict and COVID-19.  

   - He urged a shift in mindset, stating, *"Why limit investments to hydropower and hotels? There are other sectors too."*  

3. Citizenship and Investment Policies

   - Rajendra Pudashaini, an NRN honorary council member, criticized the government for not being proactive in granting rights through citizenship, leading to uncertainty for investors.  

   - Ramsharan Shingh Khada, NRN Vice President, expressed dissatisfaction over delays in granting citizenship as per constitutional provisions.  

4. Bureaucratic Hurdles

   - Entrepreneur Chhatra Shrestha (Czech Republic) highlighted the difficulties in dealing with labor unions and employee transfers in Nepal.  

   - Businessman Santos Bhattarai (Germany) pointed out complications in business registration due to mandatory national ID requirements.  

5. Security and Political Stability

   - Bodhraj Paudel (Belgium) stated that investors seek secure environments and that political instability makes business operations difficult.  

Government’s Response:

- Industry Minister Damodar Bhandari acknowledged the need for further reforms, admitting that Nepal’s laws are cumbersome.  

- He assured that the government is working to simplify processes, including allowing online business registration and reducing file processing time to seven days.  

- Rajeshwar Gyawali, Director-General of the Industry Department, admitted legal complexities but assured efforts to ease investment procedures.  

- Himal Chandra Aryal, Deputy Secretary of the Investment Board, mentioned plans for a one-door policy to streamline investment processes.  

Additional Concerns:

- Women’s Safety: Rosina Pradhan Rai (NRN Vice President) raised concerns about increasing exploitation of Nepali women in Europe.  

- Fraud Awareness: Mukta Gurung (Spain) warned against scams under the pretext of taking people abroad.  

- NRN Law: NRN President Badri KC demanded equal investment rights for NRNs as given to foreigners and urged the government to address citizenship issues.  

Conclusion:

While the government has pledged reforms, NRNs continue to push for a more transparent, stable, and legally secure investment environment in Nepal. The Industry Minister’s assurance to shift processes online is a step forward, but stakeholders demand faster implementation and policy clarity.