CNI Talk Series; “Next Nepal under New Normal”
21st May, 2026
The Confederation of Nepalese Industries hosted the 6th edition of the CNI Talk Series featuring Executive Chair of IIDS Dr. Biswas Gauchan on the theme “Next Nepal under New Normal.” The session explored Nepal’s economic transformation and the strategic pathways needed to achieve sustainable and globally competitive growth.
During the session, Dr. Gauchan highlighted Nepal’s key macroeconomic indicators, including inflation, GDP growth, remittance inflows, and trends in monetary and fiscal policy over the years. He also discussed broader structural risks facing the economy, factors of production, and the critical reforms Nepal needs to accelerate growth and realize its aspiration of becoming a USD 100 billion economy.
The discussion emphasized the need for a structural economic departure by positioning Nepal beyond its traditional dependence on neighboring economies. Dr. Gauchan underlined the importance of leveraging opportunities in tourism, hydropower, digital services, and global integration, while also assessing Nepal’s economic positioning amid the growth strategies of India and China.
He further stressed the transition from a labour-export-driven economy toward a service-export and value-addition-based model that can enhance Nepal’s global competitiveness. Key areas of focus included improving trade balance, promoting exports, strengthening endowment-based industries, and encouraging innovation-led economic growth.
The session also highlighted major global economic trends, Nepal’s upcoming graduation from Least Developed Country (LDC) status, and the importance of shifting from a poverty-centered mindset toward competitive wealth creation. Dr. Gauchan proposed several flagship initiatives and long-term strategic priorities to support Nepal’s economic transformation in the evolving global landscape.