The Nepal-India Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NICCI) has proposed a joint Nepal–India investment in a fertiliser manufacturing facility to tackle Nepal’s persistent fertiliser shortages that recur almost every harvest season and continue to undermine agricultural productivity.

The proposal was floated by NICCI President Sunil KC during an interaction with Pramod Kumar Meherda, additional secretary at India’s Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, during the latter’s visit to Kathmandu.

Highlighting the challenges faced by Nepal’s agricultural sector due to an unreliable fertiliser supply, KC stressed the need for long-term, structural solutions through bilateral collaboration.

“Lack of timely access to fertiliser is one of the key factors constraining agricultural productivity in Nepal,” KC said during the meeting on Monday. “A joint investment in a fertiliser manufacturing facility could significantly address Nepal’s chronic supply challenges while contributing to regional food security.”

The discussion also focused on strengthening cooperation in the agriculture sector and expanding bilateral trade. Both sides exchanged views on promoting sustainable agricultural practices, improving productivity, and addressing structural challenges faced by farmers in the region.