Kathmandu-Prime Minister Balen Shah on Thursday held discussions with representatives of the Federation of Contractors’ Associations of Nepal (FCAN) on issues facing the country’s construction sector, infrastructure development, the investment climate and broader economic reforms.

During the meeting at the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers, Shah said the construction sector is a key driver of Nepal’s economic growth, employment generation and infrastructure development. He assured the delegation that the government is committed to addressing the challenges confronting the industry.

The Prime Minister stressed the need to make the construction sector more dignified, transparent, accountable and results-oriented. He also emphasised close cooperation among all stakeholders to ensure that development and infrastructure projects are completed within the stipulated timeframe.

The FCAN delegation was led by President Nicholas Pandey and included Senior Vice-President Mukesh Pant, General Secretary Shivahari Ghimire, Bagmati Province Vice-President Balkrishna Thapa, and former FCAN President and adviser Jayaram Lamichhane.

The contractors informed the Prime Minister about the sector’s key concerns, including delays in payment, contract extensions, procurement management, timely implementation of projects, price adjustment mechanisms, and banking and investment-related challenges. They also underscored the need for stronger collaboration between the government and the private sector to revitalise the construction industry.

Also present at the meeting were Kumar Byanjankar, Chief Adviser at the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers, Information and Communication Technology Adviser Bibek Mishra, and Chief Personal Secretary Subash Sharma.