Nepal to sign inter-governmental dry port agreement

Nepal Freight Forwarders Association (NEFFA) has welcomed the initiative taken by the government to become a signatory to the Inter-governmental Dry Port Agreement.

According to the association, once Nepal signs the Inter-governmental Dry Port Agreement it will receive international recognition with its registration in the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and Pacific (UNESCAP).

“Along with the registration, Nepal will also be recognised in the Global Shipping Map,” said president of NEFFA Rajan Sharma. “As soon as Nepal gets the membership of the Inter-governmental Dry Port, it can directly receive its cargo through its inland container depot,” he said.

On average, there is movement of around 15,000 containers in a month, but the number could vary, he said. “Once the cabinet approves the agreement, it will go for a ministerial level meeting with UNESCAP in February 2013,” he said.

The Transshipment Agreement with India through this agreement will also help in direct export and import of goods through Nepali dry ports. “We are in the initial stages, but receiving such trade facilitation is a great achievement for our country,” said Sharma, adding that the association is looking forward to the government's signature and discussion on the issue in October, which will finally forward it for the cabinet's approval.

According to the association, the Transshipment Agreement will also minimise transport and logistic costs.