The Trekking Agencies’ Association of Nepal (TAAN), one of the most influential organizations in Nepal’s tourism and trekking sector, hosted its 47th Annual General Meeting (AGM) today at Alice Reception, Gairidhara, Kathmandu.
The program was officially inaugurated with the ceremonial lighting of the traditional panas by Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Bishnu Prasad Paudel, alongside TAAN President Sagar Pandey, marking the formal commencement of the assembly. Minister Paudel also highlighted the government’s commitment to fostering an investment-friendly environment and promoting the growth of Nepal’s tourism sector.
Deputy Prime Minister Paudel inaugurated the AGM, emphasizing that the government is actively working to build investor confidence and foster a positive investment climate in Nepal. He stated, “The government is working to enhance the confidence of the private sector and create a conducive environment for investment in the country.”
Government Committed to Tourism Promotion and Economic Growth
Minister Paudel underscored the pivotal role tourism plays in Nepal’s national economy. Reflecting on the state of the economy when he assumed office, he remarked, “When I took charge of the government, all economic indicators were negative. Today, however, there is positive change across all indicators, reflecting the government’s efforts to stabilize and grow the economy.”
Addressing concerns about tax relief, the Minister clarified that the government is currently unable to provide VAT exemptions. He urged stakeholders to focus on programs promoting business growth rather than seeking tax relief, adding, “It is challenging to cover routine expenses from revenue. The government is ready to facilitate businesses through programs that promote their growth.”
Political Stability Ensures Continued Economic Confidence
Highlighting the importance of political stability, Minister Paudel stated, “The current government is strong and stable. It will continue until the 2084 elections, providing policy continuity. We are prioritizing the implementation of policies and programs outlined in the national budget to support sustained economic growth.” He encouraged businesses to invest confidently, assuring them of a stable and supportive policy environment.
TAAN Advocates Policy and Infrastructure Reforms
During the AGM, TAAN President Sagar Pandey emphasized the need for policy reforms and infrastructure development to bolster the tourism sector. “The government must focus on creating an enabling environment for entrepreneurs by implementing policy reforms and improving infrastructure,” Pandey stated.
The Secretary of the Bagmati Province Ministry of Culture and Tourism, Dipendra Subedi, shared that the province will invest NPR 331 crore in tourism development during the current fiscal year. He added, “A significant portion of the budget will be allocated to promotional activities and infrastructure development, which is expected to bring remarkable improvements in Bagmati Province’s tourism sector.”
Similarly, Vice-Chairperson of the Nepal Tourism Board, Kamal Sapkota, highlighted the importance of close coordination with TAAN to promote tourism. “It is essential to deepen collaboration between NTB and TAAN to maximize tourism promotion efforts,” he remarked.
Recognition of Contributions to Tourism Development
The AGM also served as a platform to recognize contributions to the development of mountain and trekking tourism. Several organizations and media personnel were honored for their efforts. Awards were presented to journalists Bishwo Bhandari (Tourism Info Nepal), Phurpa Sherpa (The Everest News), Juli Gurung (Tourism Pati), and Bikram Shrestha (Shilapatra). The late Ambica Shrestha’s memory award was conferred upon Pamfa Dhamala for her outstanding contributions to tourism.
TAAN Highlights Industry Concerns and Future Plans
TAAN Senior Vice-President Karma Sherpa expressed concerns that, while the association has been progressing according to its goals, the government’s collaboration has been relatively insufficient. Additionally, President Pandey urged the government to consider further relaxation of the Trekkers’ Information Management Systems (TIMS) to support trekking businesses.
The AGM also marked the formal announcement and logo unveiling of the Kathmandu International Marathon, further emphasizing the importance of promoting Nepal as a premier tourist destination.
Notable Attendees and Proceedings
The event witnessed notable participation from prominent figures including former Tourism Minister and Nepali Congress Central Member Bal Bahadur KC, Secretary of the Ministry of Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation Hari Prasad Mainali, and Bagmati Province Minister for Culture and Tourism Suresh Shrestha.
The AGM concluded with the presentation of TAAN’s annual progress report for fiscal year 2081/082 by General Secretary Sonam Gyaljen Sherpa, alongside the financial report for the same year by Treasurer Gautam Raj Wagle. The budget and programs for fiscal year 2082/083 were approved. Amendments to the TAAN constitution, financial regulations, and employee bylaws were also ratified by the members present.
Focus on Sustained Tourism Growth
In his closing remarks, Minister Paudel reiterated the government’s commitment to safeguarding the interests of tourism businesses and promoting investment. He highlighted that the government’s continuity until the mid-term elections ensures a stable policy environment for investors and entrepreneurs in the tourism sector.
With the successful completion of its 47th AGM, TAAN has reaffirmed its dedication to promoting trekking and mountain tourism in Nepal, fostering public-private collaboration, and advocating for policy and infrastructure reforms critical to the sector’s sustainable growth.
