The seventh edition of the Nepal International Trade Fair (NITF) 2018 has commenced in the Capital from today with an aim to promote domestic products. Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli inaugurated the five-day event, organised by the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI). Addressing the inauguration ceremony, PM Oli said that the government’s primary target for the next five years will be to boost industrialisation, economic growth and overall development of the country. “It is through the effective use of available resources and holistic development that Nepal can achieve its goal of economic prosperity. The government will work together with the private sector to achieve the development targets of the country,” said Oli, adding that emphasis will also be given to further improve the investment environment in the country and attract foreign investment. Similarly, Finance Minister Yubraj Khatiwada said that the government will introduce necessary policies and make existing laws friendly to industries to boost industrial production and generate more employment opportunities. Also addressing the event, Bhawani Rana, president of FNCCI, informed that the private sector is expecting the new government to be stable and friendly for business growth in the country. She urged the government to make necessary reforms in existing laws and make them industrial sector friendly. FNCCI has been organising the event every year since 2011. This year, the event is based on the theme of ‘showcasing Nepal and the globe’ where both Nepali and foreign goods and services are being displayed through more than 300 stalls. Along with Nepal, traders from different nations, including Bangladesh, China, India and Pakistan are participating in the event. As per the organisers, the event will primarily promote Nepali handicraft items and products with export potential incorporated in the Nepal Trade Integration Strategy (NTIS) 2016. FNCCI aims to draw almost 200,000 visitors to the event.