NCC, Spanish businessmen discuss expanding trade

By A Staff Reporter

Kathmandu, July 21: The Nepal Chamber of Commerce (NCC) and the Spanish Chamber of Commerce have agreed to deepen bilateral economic cooperation by expanding trade, investment and business-to-business engagement between the private sectors of the two countries.

The understanding was reached during a meeting at the Nepal Chamber building between NCC officials and the visiting Director General of the Spanish Chamber of Commerce, Inmaculada Riera i René.

During the meeting, both sides agreed to institutionalise the cooperation by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the two chambers by early 2027, noting that Nepal's strengthening political stability and the strategic geographical location between India and China have created a favourable environment for expanding trade and investment.

As part of the cooperation, the Spanish Chamber of Commerce announced plans to send a business delegation comprising around eight to nine Spanish companies to Nepal in February or March 2027, according to a press statement issued by NCC on Monday. 

During the visit, a business forum will be organised to facilitate direct business networking between Nepali and Spanish entrepreneurs and explore new investment opportunities.

The discussions also focused on strengthening government-level cooperation to promote trade and investment, simplifying business visa procedures and encouraging high-level visits.

Both sides identified renewable energy, hydropower, solar and wind energy, water management, smart cities, transport infrastructure, tourism and hospitality, and agriculture and food processing as priority sectors for future collaboration.

The discussions highlighted Nepal's export potential in high-quality orthodox tea, organic coffee, large cardamom, medicinal and aromatic herbs, essential oils, pashmina products, handmade carpets, handicrafts, handmade paper, silver jewellery, organic honey and bamboo-based products.

The Spanish delegation also expressed confidence in sharing Spain's advanced technology and expertise with Nepal in renewable energy, irrigation, agricultural machinery, medical equipment, water treatment and tourism management.