Ministry of Commerce And Supplies - Enhanced Integrated ...

N T I S20105. Also related to the above is the need for strengthening institutional governance mechanisms ofTSIs. A professional cadre of managers needs to be built--at least in some of the largest TSIs--and beempowered independent of the elected office-bearers. Most TSIs in the country seem to be mouldedon the basis of elected leadership. Trained full-time managers are needed to operate TSIs in adherenceto the institution’s mandate and in line with the needs of the membership.6. Evidence suggests that the agricultural sector, which includes a number of export potential products,is negatively affected by the lack of effective extension services to farmers, to enable them to confronta disease that is affecting the cardamom plants. In many areas, however, district-level and local TSIscould respond to this need provided they have minimum resources and trained human resources.Creating a stronger TSI infrastructure at grass roots level is the key to ensuring Nepal’s success infurther developing export opportunities in the agricultural sector in particular.7. Exposure to new and emerging technologies, cutting-edge business processes, sunrise sectors withpotential for growth in Nepal as well as support for novel business ventures through project incubation,can contribute to improving Nepal’s business landscape, through improved productivity and innovation,resulting in the country’s exports becoming diversified, and new and more competitive products beingdeveloped. Selected TSIs should build capacity to provide their member businesses proactively withexposure to new and innovative ways of doing business, as well as developing mechanisms for businessincubation support.8. As part of a focus on developing and strengthening a structured Trade Support Network, the mandateand functions of the TEPC should be redefined and strengthened. Staff skills and human resources inthe TEPC should be clearly aligned with the mandate and functions of the organization. The lack ofa representative organization that speaks for the interest of the ever more important service exportssectors should also be looked at closely, be it through strengthening of the TEPC in this area or throughanother institution.9. The GoN should make stronger use of its overseas diplomatic missions to assist exporters in accessingmarkets by posting trained commercial counsellors and encouraging strong interactions between thoseand TSIs. The focus of these postings should be in countries where Nepal is already a large exporter aswell as in countries where the NTIS 2010 has identified strong market opportunities.238NEPAL TRADE INTEGRATION STRATEGY 2010BACKGROUND REPORT