TAAN, in a significant development aimed at improving Nepal’s business climate, has welcomed the announcement by Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak regarding the introduction of new ordinances to foster a professional business environment in the country. His statement came during a joint Lhosar celebration event organized by the Trekking Agencies’ Association of Nepal (TAAN) in Kathmandu.
Minister Lekhak highlighted that these ordinances, which have already been approved by the Federal Parliament, are set to replace existing regulations with new bills that would advance the country’s business agenda. “The government has issued several ordinances to create a conducive business environment, and today, we have introduced bills that will replace these ordinances. These new provisions will support our vision of creating an efficient, professional business environment,” said Minister Lekhak.
TAAN further elaborated on the government’s commitment to working closely with the private sector to boost development and create a better professional ecosystem. “The ordinances are designed to support the growth of the private sector, and they will contribute positively to our efforts to develop an entrepreneurial culture,” it emphasized.
The government, according to Minister Lekhak, is fully committed to resolving challenges that arise as the private sector progresses with its tourism promotion and economic growth efforts. He assured that the government is ready to collaborate with businesses to make the tourism sector more accessible, efficient, and friendly for tourists. “The government will continue to simplify business processes and work toward a tourism-friendly environment,” said the Home Minister.
Minister Lekhak also praised the contributions of TAAN in promoting Nepal as a top tourist destination. He commended the efforts of tourism entrepreneurs and assured them that the government is ready to safeguard their investments. “TAAN has played an instrumental role in attracting foreign tourists to Nepal. The government recognizes and appreciates these efforts,” he noted.
In his speech, Minister Lekhak highlighted Nepal’s rich natural heritage, including its stunning landscapes, linguistic diversity, and cultural treasures, all of which make the country an attractive destination for international visitors. He reiterated the government’s commitment to continue its partnership with the private sector to further develop Nepal’s tourism industry. “We have abundant natural resources, cultural heritage, and a variety of tourism assets. The work that TAAN is doing to attract foreign tourists is commendable, and the government is eager to join hands with the private sector to elevate Nepal’s tourism sector even further,” the Minister emphasized.
Tourism: A Key Focus for Economic Growth
Defense Minister Manbir Rai, who also attended the event, expressed his belief that Nepal has the potential to be an exceptional destination for international tourists. He emphasized that by enhancing the length of stay for tourists, Nepal could reap greater economic benefits from the tourism sector. “If we can extend the stay of tourists, Nepal will undoubtedly gain significantly in terms of revenue and global recognition,” he remarked.
At the event, TAAN President Sagar Pandey drew attention to the problems faced by both domestic and foreign tourists in Nepal’s mountainous tourism industry. He raised concerns about the difficulties tourists experience, particularly in relation to the value-added tax (VAT) imposed on air tickets for foreign tourists. Pandey urged the government to reconsider this VAT, which he argued discourages foreign tourists from visiting Nepal. “The VAT on air tickets is a major hindrance for foreign tourists who are considering visiting Nepal. We urge the government to remove this tax in order to make Nepal more accessible to tourists,” he stated.
Cultural Celebrations and Performances
The event also featured a colorful display of cultural performances, including dances and music from various ethnic groups, reflecting Nepal’s rich diversity. These performances underscored the unity and cultural heritage of the country, adding to the festive spirit of the occasion.
The discussions at the event provided a platform for key government officials and stakeholders in the tourism industry to reflect on the current state of tourism in Nepal and explore potential solutions to the challenges facing the sector. The collective vision expressed by the ministers, along with the support for TAAN’s initiatives, indicates a growing collaboration between the government and the private sector to foster a thriving tourism industry in Nepal.
The government’s commitment to providing a favorable business environment, particularly in tourism, coupled with the industry’s significant contribution to Nepal’s economic growth, marks a promising future for the country’s tourism sector. As Nepal looks to boost its profile as a global tourist destination, these ongoing efforts are poised to create new opportunities for local businesses and attract greater international interest.
