Nepal Investment Board Approves Strategic Plan for PPP Projects

Kathmandu: Nepal’s Investment Board (IBN) has approved a new Strategic and Business Plan (2081–86) to fast-track Nepal PPP projects and enhance infrastructure development across the country. The roadmap includes detailed timelines, financing strategies, and feasibility studies for large-scale projects over the next four years.

Key Targets and Investment Goals

IBN spokesperson Pradyumna Prasad Upadhyay said the plan outlines both minimum and maximum investment goals, anticipating improved regulatory and operational conditions to attract private capital.

• Construction Completion: 11 projects (~$8.95B)

• Under Construction Stage: 7 projects (~$2.83B)

• Pipeline Projects: 57 projects proposed for feasibility studies (~$24.3B)

• Private Sector Involvement: 67 privately-executed projects (~$7.45B)

The plan also proposes four core directorates for better institutional management: Planning & Financial Management, PPP Management, Investment Promotion, and Project Development & Oversight.

Past Performance and Execution Challenges

Despite ambitious targets, IBN’s past record shows gaps in implementation. Since inception, only NRs. 1.2 trillion (~$9B) has been approved across 38 projects. Manpower shortages, bureaucratic delays, and dependence on donor agencies continue to hinder effective execution.

Outlook for Nepal PPP Projects

If successfully implemented, this strategic plan could accelerate Nepal PPP projects, improve infrastructure, and attract foreign and domestic investment. Analysts, however, caution that robust governance and operational capacity will determine actual outcomes.

Related Links:

• Nepal Infrastructure Development Updates

• Investment Board of Nepal

• Public-Private Partnership Framework in Nepal