IME Group Launches Paper Industry with NPR 2 Billion Investment; PM Oli Inaugurates
Kathmandu – IME Group has officially launched Nepal Pulp and Paper Industries in Ramnagar, Gaushala Municipality-1, Mahottari, with an investment of NPR 2 billion. Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli inaugurated the industry by unveiling a commemorative plaque at the facility.
Following the inauguration, PM Oli observed the paper production process and the environmentally friendly calcium carbonate production at the plant.
Production Capacity and Impact
The industry has begun producing 75 metric tons of high-quality writing and printing paper per day, starting with photocopy paper and notebook paper. This is expected to significantly reduce Nepal’s reliance on imported paper and support domestic institutions like Janak Education Materials Center, which prints school textbooks.
IME Group’s Vision
Speaking at the event, IME Group Chairman Chandra Prasad Dhakal emphasized that this venture marks IME Group’s formal entry into the manufacturing sector and is a milestone in Nepal’s industrial journey.
“The establishment of this industry is not just about production but also about achieving self-reliance, economic growth, and sustainable industrial development. It serves as an example of the private sector’s contribution to national progress,” Dhakal stated.
He further highlighted how such industries could help curb labor migration, ensuring that Nepalese youth do not have to seek employment in the extreme heat of the Gulf countries. The paper industry is expected to create over 300 direct jobs and thousands of indirect employment opportunities, benefiting engineers, technicians, factory workers, supply chain managers, retailers, and even local farmers.
Dhakal also mentioned that more than 50% of the employees would be local residents and women, aligning with IME Group’s goal of empowering local communities.
Investment Climate and Challenges
As the President of the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI), Dhakal noted that recent government policies have fostered a more investment-friendly environment. He urged policymakers to ensure stable and supportive regulations to attract both domestic and foreign investors.
Dhakal also addressed concerns over the Pathibhara Cable Car project, emphasizing that negative perceptions around investment and infrastructure development could discourage investors. He called for better coordination between the government and private sector to facilitate major projects.
Reducing Import Dependency
For years, Nepal has been highly dependent on imported paper, especially after the closure of the Bhaktapur-based Bhrikuti Paper Mill. While small-scale and handmade paper industries have contributed to Nepal’s paper supply, they have not been sufficient for industrial demand. With the launch of Nepal Pulp and Paper Industries, the country is expected to move toward self-sufficiency in paper production.
IME Group’s Future Priorities
Dhakal outlined IME Group’s three investment priorities:
- Investing in sectors prioritized by the nation
- Investing in industries that provide direct benefits to the public
- Investing in long-term, sustainable businesses that address national needs
“From remittance, banking, insurance, IT, hydropower, to tourism infrastructure, all our businesses align with these priorities. This paper factory is another step in that direction,” Dhakal concluded.
