Dhakal urges Spanish businesses to invest in Nepal

Kathmandu, July 3

President of the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI), Chandra Prasad Dhakal, has urged Spanish entrepreneurs to strengthen economic relations between Nepal and Spain and to explore greater investment collaboration.

Addressing a programme organised by the Nepali Embassy in Madrid on Wednesday, President Dhakal highlighted the numerous investment opportunities available in Nepal and urged Spanish businesses to consider investing in those sectors.

The event was attended by members of the Spanish Chamber of Commerce and Industry, business leaders, representatives of the Nepali community, and diplomatic dignitaries.

According to a statement issued by the FNCCI, Dhakal said that there is strong potential for cooperation between the two countries in tourism, energy, agriculture, information technology, and infrastructure sectors.

He said the unique religious, cultural, and natural attractions ranging from Mount Everest to Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha are unique features of Nepal. He stated that investing in quality services and infrastructure would help Nepal attract more tourists from around the world.

Likewise, Dhakal mentioned that Nepal has developed an investment-friendly environment, established a ‘one-stop service centre’ to simplify investment and company registration processes, and prioritised sectors such as energy, agriculture, IT, construction, and digital innovation in the national budget by offering tax exemptions and simplifying business regulations.

“Our goal is to make doing business in Nepal easy, quick, and transparent,” he said. “The FNCCI has continuously lobbied the government for policy reforms, resulting in the amendment of over 30 business-related laws, thereby creating a more conducive environment for investment.”

Highlighting Nepal’s huge potential in clean energy, with over 40,000 megawatts of untapped hydropower capacity, and the expansion of regional electricity trade and transmission infrastructure, he described this as an opportune time for Spanish companies.

Dhakal also encouraged the Spanish business community to visit Nepal.

He noted that Nepali entrepreneurs are keen to learn from Spain’s globally successful tourism industry. He also assured that the FNCCI would assist in identifying sectors, finding local partners, and understanding processes.

Discussing the role of the Nepali diaspora in Spain, he urged them to act as economic ambassadors by promoting Nepali products, attracting investment, and supporting tourism development.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 4 July 2025.