
On January 14, 2025, the Nepal-German Chamber of Commerce and Industries (NGCCI), in collaboration with KfW DEG, hosted an insightful event titled “Nepal-German Partnership: Unlocking Private Sector Potential with DEG/KfW” at Hotel Radisson, Kathmandu, Nepal. This significant gathering underscored the vital partnership between Nepal and Germany, highlighting the instrumental roles played by KfW, Germany’s promotional bank, and DEG, its subsidiary dedicated to fostering private sector development.
The event brought together key stakeholders, policymakers, and business leaders from both nations to discuss and explore strategies to strengthen economic ties and unlock the potential of Nepal’s private sector. KfW, as a long-standing partner in Nepal’s development journey, has been pivotal in supporting sustainable economic development, energy, and infrastructure projects. Meanwhile, DEG focuses on empowering private enterprises in developing and emerging economies through tailored financial solutions, advisory services, and equity investments. Together, these institutions have significantly contributed to job creation, economic growth, and sustainable development in Nepal, fostering robust economic collaboration between the two nations.
Hosted by Ms. Sudeekshya Dwa, the program commenced with a welcome address by Mr. Santosh Kunwar, President of NGCCI, whose leadership and extensive experience in fostering Nepal-German trade relations set the tone for the discussions ahead. The event featured a series of presentations by distinguished speakers, including Mr. Benjamin Siedel, Deputy Chief of Mission and Head of Cooperation and Economic Affairs of the Federal Republic of Germany to Nepal; Mr. Sushil Gyewali, CEO of the Investment Board of Nepal (IBN); Mr. Benjamin Brink, Regional Director of DEG; and Ms. Fahmeda Ahmed, Senior Analyst, Corporate Asia, DEG Bangladesh Office.
These presentations provided valuable insights into the collaborative efforts between Nepal and Germany, emphasizing the role of private sector initiatives in driving economic transformation. The event culminated in a dynamic panel discussion session which was moderated by Ms. Nikita Bajracharya and the panelist were Mr. Ramesh Adhikari, Under Secretary, IBN; Mr. Siddhartha Mani Rajbhandari, MD, NCEC; Mr. Sunil KC, CEO, NMB Bank; Mr. Benjamin Brink, Regional Director, DEG; Mr. Ram Krishna Khatiwada, Infrastructure Financing Intermediary Vehicle Advisor/ Former CEO Nepal Infrastructure Bank., offering a platform for an in-depth exchange of ideas and actionable strategies to further strengthen Nepal-German cooperation and development.
Mr. Gyawali concluded by warmly welcoming Development Finance Institutions (DFIs) like KFW DEG to Nepal and inviting them to explore opportunities in the country. He highlighted IBN’s commitment to facilitating investments and maintaining open communication channels. Finally, he introduced the upcoming speed dating session, which provided an opportunity for investors and stakeholders to interact and discuss potential collaborations.
The event was well coordinated by Mr. Rajib Mangal Joshi, Executive Committee member NGCCI and Ms. Saraswati Maharjan, CEO. Furthermore, NGCCI acknowledges the Past Presidents, Office Bearers and all Executive Committee members for making the event successful. Also NGCCI would like to thank event solution private limited for well arranged set up and event management.