NEF calls for enabling policy framework for Nepal’s growing gig economy – The Himalayan Times – Nepal’s No.1 English Daily Newspaper

KATHMANDU, JUNE 22

The Nepal Economic Forum (NEF) has called for a balanced and enabling policy framework for Nepal’s rapidly expanding gig economy, particularly the ride-hailing sector, describing it as a potential driver of employment generation, tourism growth and small business development.

At an NEFtalk programme titled ‘Gig Economy and Ride Hailing: Towards Employment Generation’ held in Kathmandu on Friday, policymakers, business leaders and development experts discussed the need for a coherent national framework to regulate and support the platform economy.

Member of the National Planning Commission, Pukar Malla, said Nepal should avoid a false choice between innovation and regulation. He stressed the need for policy clarity on ride-hailing, harmonisation between federal and subnational regulations, social security coverage and labour formalisation through digital platforms.

Presenting a policy brief at the event, NEF Executive Board Member Rojesh Shrestha said ride-hailing had evolved beyond a transportation service and was increasingly contributing to economic development, tourism and the SME ecosystem.

Speakers also highlighted the importance of worker protection, legal clarity and healthy competition in the sector. They noted that the gig economy offers flexible employment opportunities for youth and can serve as a bridge towards a more inclusive and employment-generating economy.