Pokhara and Thai business representatives have discussed expanding bilateral cooperation and investment, with tourism identified as one of the key areas of opportunity. The discussions focused on strengthening business partnerships, promoting tourism exchange and creating opportunities for investment between Nepal and Thailand. The proposed collaboration is expected to create stronger links between businesses in both countries while opening new possibilities in tourism, trade and related services.
The interaction took place on Thursday between a delegation led by Dipendra Desar, an adviser to Thailand’s Ministry of Industry, and office bearers of the Pokhara Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI). The meeting also explored cooperation in information technology, trade and services alongside tourism, reflecting a broader interest in developing long-term commercial relations between the two countries.
Strengthening Nepal Thailand Business Relations
Desar, who is of Nepali origin and has been living in Thailand for a long time, is involved in businesses related to information technology, tourism and import export. He said he would help facilitate connections between businesses in Pokhara and the Thai market, aiming to establish stronger and more sustainable commercial relationships. His involvement in different business sectors could also help connect Nepali entrepreneurs with potential partners and market opportunities in Thailand.
Pokhara Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) President Shobha Gautam said closer cooperation could create opportunities to introduce Thai small and medium sized enterprise (SME) products to Nepal while expanding the market for Nepali goods in Thailand. She also highlighted the need to improve product quality to strengthen Nepal’s export potential. Greater coordination between businesses, she noted, could support trade expansion and create opportunities for entrepreneurs on both sides.
Tourism Exchange and Investment Opportunities
Gautam highlighted the potential for expanding tourism exchange between Nepal and Thailand, noting the cultural and religious connections between the two countries. She pointed to Nepal’s significance as the birthplace of Gautama Buddha and Thailand’s Buddhist heritage as opportunities to attract visitors through religious and cultural tourism. Stronger cooperation in this area could help promote travel between the two destinations and encourage visitors to explore their shared Buddhist heritage.
She also presented Pokhara as an important tourism destination and a gateway to the Annapurna trekking region. With international hotel chains already operating in the city, she said Pokhara could offer investment opportunities for Thai businesses in hotels, restaurants and other tourism related services. Pokhara Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) expressed its willingness to facilitate interested investors and support potential partnerships that could contribute to the city’s tourism infrastructure and services.
Improving Trade and Market Access
Nepal currently exports products such as carpets, meat and stationery items to Thailand. Gautam requested support from the Thai delegation to help improve the quality of Nepali products, which could strengthen their competitiveness and increase exports to the Thai market. Better access to international markets, combined with improvements in production standards, could help Nepali businesses expand their presence in Thailand.
Desar reiterated his commitment to helping Nepali businesses access Thailand’s market. He also said cooperation could be expanded in tourism and services, while Thai investors could be encouraged to explore opportunities in Nepal. Such collaboration could create additional business links and make it easier for companies in both countries to identify potential areas for investment and commercial exchange.
Proposed Business Expo to Promote Cooperation
The Thai delegation proposed organising a business exhibition involving companies from Nepal and Thailand to provide a platform for business networking and cooperation. Gautam welcomed the proposal and said PCCI was interested in and capable of organising such an event. The exhibition could give businesses from both countries an opportunity to present their products, explore partnerships and establish direct commercial contacts.
Desar said the main objective of the visit was to establish long term business relationships between the two countries. He also reiterated the importance of facilitating market access and encouraging cooperation across different sectors. Both sides expressed interest in continuing discussions and strengthening cooperation, with tourism, investment and trade among the areas offering potential for future partnerships.
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