Nepal a hub for IT in South Asia, Communications Minister says

Kathmandu, Aug 7: Minister for Communications and Information Technology Prithvi Subba Gurung has said that Nepal is being established as an emerging 'Silicon Valley' of South Asia.     

Addressing the Japan-Nepal IT Forum, 2025 in Kathmandu on Thursday, Minister Gurung urged the Japanese IT industries to run companies in Nepal adding that Nepal was a good location for the development of an IT hub.     

"Nepal is ready to welcome Japanese innovation, investment and technology in Nepal. I urge the Japanese investors, researchers and technology entrepreneurs to join Nepal's digital journey," Minister Gurung stated.     

He also pledged to provide regulatory clarity, policy facilitation and complete institutional support for the IT investors in Nepal.     

Minister Gurung viewed that the Forum has offered an ample opportunity to bring together scientists, policymakers, technical experts and business leaders from both the countries.     

He also expressed confidence that a foundation for Nepal-Japan IT corridor would be laid out from this Forum and added that Nepal has closely observed this partnership as a beginning for the long term strategic collaboration.     

Likewise, Minister Gurung said Nepal was fully committed to welcome Japan's investment in IT hub, computing centre and software outsourcing and other areas.     

"We are ready to create a conducive environment for investment through one-stop service system, infrastructure development, policy and tax exemption," according to Minister Gurung.     

Gurung stated that the Japanese government has been proposed for partnership for the establishment of green energy-powered data centre and for Nepal's own satellite for ensuring rural connectivity.     

He also stressed for collaboration between Nepal and Japan in the areas of cyber security system, fibre optic expansion, telecom reform, 5G and other areas.     

Likewise, HoR Member Dr Swarnim Wagle suggested that Nepal and Japan should begin intense businesses from mega companies adding that there are several bases for business expansion between the two countries.(RSS)