India and Nepal strengthen trade and connectivity at the IGC meeting in Kathmandu, addressing key bilateral issues.
The India-Nepal Inter-Governmental Committee (IGC) on Trade, Transit, and Cooperation met in Kathmandu from January 10-11, 2025, to reinforce economic ties. The Indian delegation, led by Commerce Secretary Sunil Barthwal, engaged with Nepali officials headed by Gobinda Bahadur Karkee, Secretary, Ministry of Industry, Commerce, and Supplies.
Key discussions included market access, duty concerns, and amending trade agreements. Both nations emphasised synchronised infrastructure development, including electrification of the Raxaul-Birgunj rail line. India agreed to supply 200,000 MT of wheat to Nepal and extended vehicle axle weight regulations for Nepali cargo in transit.
India also approved Nepal’s requests for certain plant product exports, while Nepal showed willingness to review documentation on product reclassification and milk import issues.
A Joint Business Forum, co-hosted by CII and FNCCI, highlighted business-friendly solutions. Both sides welcomed enhanced cross-border connectivity, reaffirming commitments to seamless trade and infrastructure development.
