DPM Singh reiterates commitment to work with private sector

By A Staff Reporter,Kathmandu, Nov. 16: The 'FEEN Electro-Tech 2024,' organised by the Federation of Electrical Entrepreneurs of Nepal, kicked off at the Bhrikutimandap Exhibition Centre in Kathmandu on Friday. 

Speaking at the opening ceremony of the 11th edition of the expo, FEEN's President, Resham Prasad Devkota, said that the international exhibition featured a comprehensive range of electrical and electronic products. He added that awareness programmes on consumer rights and interests in the areas of electronics and electricity would also be conducted throughout the event.

Inaugurating the expo, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Urban Development Prakash Man Singh said that there was a need for the government to prioritise initiatives that boost production within the country. "The government is focused on ensuring the energy required for production and organising such an exhibition will also aid in achieving our national energy goals," he said. Minister Singh reiterated the government's commitment to partnering with the private sector for progress.

Likewise, Chandra Prasad Dhakal, President of the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI), called for breaking the perception that Nepal lacks an investment-friendly environment. He stressed the importance of political consensus on economic agendas, regardless of which party is in power. 

"The private sector drives the nation's economy, and the government must incorporate suggestions from the sector to move forward," he added.

Kamlesh Agrawal, President of the Nepal Chamber of Commerce, underscored the importance of increasing domestic electricity consumption alongside exporting power. "The government needs to reduce electricity prices and address the challenges faced by the private sector," he stated.

According to the FEEN, this year's Electro-Tech features 82 pavilions and stalls, both indoors and outdoors. The exhibition showcases a variety of products, including domestic and multinational brands, transmission and distribution equipment, energy supply and control devices, house wiring materials, wires, cables and conductors, advanced switches, LED lighting, electronics, household electrical appliances, office technology, telecommunications equipment, information technology, and alternative energy solutions.

Exhibitors from countries such as India, China, Japan, Taiwan, France, Spain, Malaysia, Germany, Italy, and Australia are participating in the expo, displaying an array of electric and electronic products. Notable brands include Transweld, Premier, Orchid, Janaki, C&S, Lisha, Dinz, Swift Gold, KEI, Janata, HPL, Philips, Havells, Siemens, Usha, Anchor, Orient, Himstar, Almeek, Librat, Arigold, Indotech, and Goldman, among others.

The FEEN expects around 50,000 visitors over the four-day exhibition. About 7,000 visitors reached the expo on Friday.