FNCCI, CNI raise concerns over unannounced load-shedding in industrial sector  

KATHMANDU: Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) and Confederation of Nepalese Industries (CNI) have expressed serious concerns about the repeated unannounced load-shedding affecting Nepal's industrial sector.  

According to separate press statements from the two private sector organisations, recent irregular and unscheduled power outages—lasting up to 12 hours—have severely disrupted industrial production and the business environment.  

FNCCI stated that industries are facing significant challenges due to these electricity disruptions. Regular and abrupt outages have hindered the continuous operation of industries, causing unexpected setbacks in production processes and resulting in a sharp decline in output.  

Additionally, FNCCI warned that instability in electricity supply has caused severe financial losses, as damaged machinery and other equipment have led to high costs for repairs, maintenance, and replacement. These disruptions, it argued, threaten to undermine the country’s modest economic progress and elevate the risk of a long-term economic crisis.  

CNI similarly criticised the Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) for its recent actions, stating that unannounced load-shedding for up to 12 hours has significantly harmed the country’s investment climate. CNI asserted that such measures raise doubts about the feasibility of establishing new industries or expanding existing ones.  

At a time when the government is working to promote domestic industries, improve laws to encourage private sector participation, and create an investment-friendly environment, load-shedding by the NEA—a government agency—has thrown the industrial sector into disarray.  

CNI also condemned the NEA for exporting electricity during periods of surplus while failing to ensure adequate supply for domestic industries. It described this practice, combined with renewed load-shedding, as a move that effectively discourages industrial development in the country.  

Both FNCCI and CNI have urged the government to take immediate measures to guarantee a reliable, uninterrupted electricity supply for the industrial sector. They have also urged increased investment in energy infrastructure, improved facilitation of energy supply, and the promotion of continuous dialogue and collaboration with the private sector to support long-term industrialisation.