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NEFtalk Explores Migration and Remittance as Drivers of Nepal’s Economic Future

KATHMANDU: Nepal Economic Forum (NEF) hosted a timely NEFtalk event titled “Rethinking Migration and Remittance in Nepal”, highlighting how migration trends, remittance flows, and diaspora engagement are reshaping the country’s economic landscape.

Rojesh Bhakta Shrestha, Senior Beed at Beed Management, presented findings from a recent NEF report showing remittances are projected to exceed USD 12 billion, with 25% still being channeled through informal means.

Keynote speaker Giuseppe Savino, Founder of Migration Protocol and NEF Advisory Board Member, discussed global migration dynamics, emphasizing that migration is an economic necessity amid a projected shortage of 85 million skilled workers worldwide by 2050.

Similarly, Leann Johnston, Australian Ambassador to Nepal, acknowledged the growing role of Nepalis in Australia’s workforce, while pointing out barriers in formal remittance due to restrictive banking systems.

Rob Fenn, British Ambassador to Nepal, stressed the importance of improving Nepal’s education system and facilitating returnees through transnational education and diaspora-led investment initiatives.

Likewise, Suman Pokharel, Deputy CEO of Global IME Bank, highlighted the increasing financial and digital literacy among migrants, encouraging greater participation in Nepal’s capital markets and the need for targeted SME financing for returnees.

The discussion was moderated by Sujeev Shakya, Chair of NEF, who called for a shift in policy perspectives beyond Kathmandu and urged stakeholders to view migration not as a fallback, but as a strategic opportunity for national development.

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