What was the reason for choosing Nepal as the venue for the World Congress?
We have been organizing World Congress in different regions every year. The World Congress this year was scheduled for Asia and Hotel Association Nepal won the bidding. We feel it was a perfect time for Nepal as well to organize such a grand program as the country is observing Nepal Tourism Year (NTY) 2011.
Do you think the World Congress was fruitful to attract international investments in Nepal?
A number of international entrepreneurs who are looking for perfect destination to expand their business are here assembled in this country. As many as 130 high-level delegates from 30 countries are here to participate in the event out of which most of them are visiting Nepal for the first time. There are good chances they will come back and start investment in Nepal provided the country retains the good environment.
Being a hotelier yourself, what do you think is necessary to attract foreign investment in this sector?
Some of the countries have brought down tax rates for hospitality industry to a single-digit number which is a very welcoming move to attract investment. As we are investors, we would like to invest in such places which provide comparatively more benefits that may come in terms of low tax or tax exemption for some period or may be free piece of land because hospitality industry directly supports the country´s economy by generating employment, revenue and others. Private sector should be given more power to create investment-friendly environment. International standard airport along with some other infrastructure is a must for Nepal to attract more visitors, eventually which would attract more investors.
How can IHRA help HAN members in promoting their hotels?
The first thing we are doing at IHRA is helping hotels in new classification system. The hotels in Nepal are operating under 40-year old classification. The taste and needs of clients have drastically changed during this time and to promote tourism industry, such things are to be considered. Besides, we can also help in training, assistance and as a whole in promoting hospitality sector of the country.
How can IHRA help promote Nepal as a tourism destination?
We don´t promote tourism directly. Rather, we promote hospitality industry. Promoting hospitality industry helps a country attract new visitors. People would definitely want to go to the places where there are nice resorts and hotels.
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