Strengthening the Nepal Tourism Board for Effective Tourism Promotion

Tourism is one of Nepal's most important economic sectors, yet the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB), the country's principal tourism promotion institution, continues to face significant institutional challenges. Concerns were raised in Parliament regarding the Board's limited capacity, including a high number of vacant staff positions, the absence of recruitment for several years, outdated digital platforms, and weak international promotion despite substantial budget allocations. The address acknowledged the government's commitment, as outlined in the Policy and Programme, to restructure the Nepal Tourism Board and welcomed recent efforts to appoint capable, professional, and qualified leadership. It was emphasised, however, that these reforms should be implemented without delay. With Wellness Year 2027 only months away and Visit Nepal 2085 already announced, the need for a stronger institutional framework and effective tourism promotion was highlighted. Attention was drawn to the importance of timely reforms to ensure that Nepal is well prepared to maximise these national tourism initiatives.