Governor Bishwo Paudel of Nepal Rastra Bank has urged Nepal’s information technology (IT) companies to confidently pursue international markets, stating that recent policy and regulatory reforms have created a strong foundation for global expansion.
In a message shared on social media, Governor Paudel said that improvements in policy frameworks and recent decisions by the central bank have significantly strengthened the environment for Nepali IT firms seeking to operate beyond the domestic market.
He noted that reforms led by the Ministry of Finance—including simplified company registration, revisions to foreign investment limits, and steps to improve the reliability of the tax system—have contributed to a sharp rise in foreign investment in the IT sector.
According to the governor, the impact of these measures is already visible. While around 40 IT companies were registered roughly two years ago, nearly 400 new IT companies were established in the past year alone, reflecting growing confidence in the sector.
Paudel said Nepal Rastra Bank has further advanced these reforms since he assumed office. Under current provisions, Nepali exporting companies are permitted to invest up to USD 1 million abroad. Companies that do not export are also allowed to invest up to USD 20,000 overseas.
“After I joined Nepal Rastra Bank, Nepali exporting companies were allowed to invest up to one million dollars abroad, and even non-exporting companies can invest up to twenty thousand dollars,” Paudel stated.
He also addressed concerns from foreign investors regarding excessive administrative procedures. In response, the central bank has removed the requirement to obtain prior approval from Nepal Rastra Bank to repatriate profits abroad, a move aimed at making Nepal’s investment environment more efficient and predictable.
Paudel added that the central bank will continue to review these limits and adjust them gradually based on results. Until 2021, Nepal maintained restrictions on foreign investment. Against that background, Paudel said the current initiatives may appear modest but are expected to have significant long-term effects on the economy.
He concluded by encouraging young entrepreneurs and technology professionals to focus on innovation and global competitiveness. “Move forward with confidence. Develop new products and look to the global market. With hard work and determination, it is possible to compete internationally from Nepal,” Paudel said.
