A delegation from the Nepal Chamber of Commerce (NCC) held a high-level meeting with Sri Lanka’s Ambassador to Nepal, Ruwanthi Delpitiya, focusing on strengthening bilateral trade relations and expanding air connectivity between the two nations. Despite long-standing diplomatic, cultural, and religious ties, officials noted that annual trade volumes remain significantly low.
Bilateral Trade Still Limited Despite Strong Ties
During the meeting, NCC President Kamlesh Kumar Agrawal highlighted that Nepal–Sri Lanka trade currently stands at an annual average of just USD 2.5 million. Nepal imports goods worth around USD 1.40 million from Sri Lanka but exports only USD 0.70 million, underscoring the need for improved trade facilitation.
Agrawal stressed that both countries, which share historical and cultural bonds, should utilize these relationships to boost tourism and commerce. “Our export figures are still very low compared to imports. There is tremendous potential for collaboration and trade expansion,” he said.
Proposal for Direct Lumbini–Sri Lanka Flights
One of the key proposals put forward by the NCC was the operation of a weekly direct flight between Sri Lanka and Lumbini, aimed at increasing the flow of Buddhist pilgrims to Nepal. The Chamber believes that direct connectivity to Lumbini, the birthplace of Gautam Buddha, would attract a large number of Sri Lankan Buddhist visitors and significantly strengthen cultural tourism between the two nations. Agrawal added that expanding air routes and increasing flight frequency would not only support tourism but also improve overall trade movement.
Visa-Free Travel Request for Nepali Tourists
To further promote tourism exchange, the Nepal Chamber of Commerce requested the Sri Lankan government to consider visa-free entry for Nepali tourists visiting Sri Lanka. NCC officials emphasized that easing travel requirements would encourage more Nepalis to explore Sri Lanka’s religious, cultural, and natural attractions.
Focus on Trade Facilitation and Investment Opportunities
The meeting also explored areas of potential economic cooperation, including:
- Agriculture and horticulture
- Hydropower development
- Information and communication technology (ICT)
- Digital trade and e-commerce
- Infrastructure development and construction
Chamber representatives suggested establishing stronger business-to-business linkages and facilitating joint investments in sectors that benefit both economies.
Ambassador Delpitiya Expresses Commitment to Enhancing Trade
Ambassador Ruwanthi Delpitiya welcomed the Chamber’s proposals and expressed her commitment to exploring various avenues to enhance trade between Nepal and Sri Lanka. She assured that efforts were underway to improve trade facilitation and identify new areas of partnership.
She also invited the NCC to participate in Sri Lanka’s upcoming international trade fair, encouraging Nepali businesses to showcase their products and explore collaborative opportunities. “I see strong potential for increased cooperation, and we are actively working to create an environment that supports enhanced bilateral trade,” the Ambassador noted.
Meeting Reinforces Long-Standing Relations
The discussion reaffirmed the deep-rooted cultural, diplomatic, and religious connections shared by the two countries, particularly tied to Buddhist heritage. Both sides expressed optimism that improved air links, liberalized travel policies, and stronger economic cooperation would elevate Nepal–Sri Lanka relations to new heights. The NCC delegation concluded the meeting by expressing gratitude to the Ambassador for her support and willingness to strengthen bilateral engagement.
