Country Information

• GDP: US$12.6 billion (2008).
• Main imports: Gold, machinery and equipment, petroleum products and fertiliser.
• Main exports: Clothing, carpet, leather, jute goods and hydroelectric power.
• Main trade partners: India, USA, China, United Arab Emirates and Germany.

Nepal is one of the world's least developed countries. Although little of the land can be cultivated, an estimated 90% of the working population finds employment in agriculture and forestry.

Foodstuffs and live animals provide about 30% of Nepal's export earnings. The manufacturing sector is very small and concentrated in light industries.

The country has a considerable hydroelectric potential, but the sector is relatively underdeveloped. There is some mining. Tourism declined with the political turmoil, but is certainly on the way to recovery.

Nepal relies on substantial amounts of foreign aid, and runs a large external debt. Agreements have been signed with several other governments, including China (PR). Nepal is a member of the Asian Development Bank and the Colombo Plan.

Lightweight suits or shirt and tie are recommended. The best time to visit is October to May.

Office hours: Sun-Fri 0930-1700.

Government office hours: Kathmandu Valley: Mon-Fri 0900-1700 (winter), 0900-1600 (summer). Other areas: Sun-Fri 1000-1700 (winter), 1000-1600 (summer).

Nepal Chamber of Commerce
PO Box 198, Kantipath, Kathmandu, Nepal
Tel: (1) 423 0947.
Website: www.nepalchamber.org

Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry
PO Box 269, Pachali Shahid Shukra, Milan Marg, Teku, Kathmandu, Nepal
Tel: (1) 426 2061 or 2218 or 6889.
Website: www.fncci.org

Nepal-Britain Chamber of Commerce and Industry
1448/30, Madan Bhandari Path - 4, New Baneshwor, PO Box 24714, Kathmandu, Nepal
Tel: (1) 204 2770.
Website: www.nbcci.org

Nepal Incentive and Convention Association (Information on Conferences/Conventions)
PO Box 4258, Kathmandu, Nepal
Tel: (1) 449 4411.