‘Our business community takes advantage where it fits’

To invigorate the business climate, it is time for the government systems to become more digitised and faceless, with less bureaucracy at every step and a focus on policy clarity.

Ujjwal Kumar Shrestha is the executive director of Panchakanya Group, a diversified manufacturing company that has built its reputation over 52 years by specialising in quality and reliable building materials. Beyond manufacturing, the group has ventured into hydropower, trading, construction, and limestone mining, reflecting a diversified portfolio. Shrestha entered Nepal's corporate world in April 2007, when he joined his family business as a marketing manager in the steel and plastic divisions after his return from the US. Shrestha, who believes that no job is big or small and that whatever you do, you must put your heart into it, worked in a cafe in the US. He has always believed that a strong team brings a lot of positive synergy and high consistency, which helps attain goals more competently than through individual efforts. In an email interview with the Post, Shrestha discusses Nepal's current economic situation and challenges, including the company’s plans. Excerpts: