Greater New York Nepali Chamber of Commerce Launched: Uniting Nepali Businesses in the Tri-State Area

The Greater New York Nepali Chamber of Commerce, a new organization for Nepali-speaking businesses in the tri-state area, has officially begun operations. The inauguration ceremony was held at Terrace on the Park in Queens, New York, on the occasion of Nepali New Year.

The event boasted a distinguished guest list including Nepal’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Lok Bahadur Thapa; New York State Assemblymember, Steven Raga; Queens Borough Deputy President, Eboni Yong; Haris Khan, Director of Small Business Services at the NYC Department of Small Business Services; and Cassandra Johnson, Justice of the Supreme Court of Queens County.

The Chamber was established after two years of discussions among Nepali-speaking business owners in New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut. It aims to promote trade between Nepal and the US, provide a platform for collaboration among Nepali businesses, advocate for the interests of Nepali businesses, and offer resources and support for business growth. They will also organize networking events and educational programs.

Membership is open to Nepali-speaking business owners in the tri-state area. There are various membership tiers with fees ranging from $150 to $2,500.

The Chamber is led by a seven-member board elected on March 24, including Pradip Shrestha, Tsepak D. Gurung, Tshering Gurung, Dr. Sulochana Gurung, Deepak Shrestha, Nevin Chetry, and Nischal Baskota. An eight-member advisory committee also provides guidance, consisting of Amit Pratap Shah, Gyaljen Nuru Sherpa, Khagendra GC, Manita Gurung, Nabaraj KC, Passang Nuru Sherpa, Sameer Maharjan, and Urgen Sherpa.

This is the first organization of its kind in the New York area to unite Nepali businesses. Pradiep Shrestha is one of the founders and serves on the board.

Photos: Shambhu Tamang