Nepal’s export potential could remain underutilized unless the country shifts focus toward building digital platforms that enable global sales, according to industry leaders.
Pashupati Dev Pandey, President of the Nepal Garment Industry Association, stressed that Nepal currently lacks systems that allow domestic products to reach international markets through online channels. While mechanisms exist for importing goods via banking systems, he said the priority should now shift toward developing platforms that promote Nepali products abroad.
He highlighted the need to establish a robust e-commerce payment gateway system within Nepal, capable of attracting international companies such as PayPal and Amazon. According to Pandey, their presence in the country would help expand the global reach of Nepal’s export-oriented goods.
Pandey also pointed out structural issues affecting exporters, including inconsistencies in export subsidies and tax-related challenges. He noted that frequent changes in subsidy procedures create uncertainty and hinder long-term planning.
In addition, he emphasized the importance of adopting a faceless system for handling export-related government processes, which could simplify procedures and improve efficiency.
Referring to the large number of Nepalis living abroad, Pandey said the government should develop clear policies to channel remittance inflows into productive sectors and investments, which could further strengthen the export ecosystem.
