Kathmandu [Nepal], October 8 – The government is ready to support efforts to develop the advertising sector as an autonomous and resilient industry, Minister for Information and Communications Dr Bikram Timilsina said on Wednesday.
Addressing the logo unveiling ceremony of the 13th Red Bull Kriti Awards organised by the Advertising Association of Nepal in Lalitpur, Timilsina called for a critical review of the challenges facing the sector and measures to address them.
He said advertising is linked not only to business but also to culture, national identity, media, democracy, creativity and the broader economy. A stronger advertising industry, he added could contribute to economic growth, democratic practices and the media sector.
Timilsina urged stakeholders to identify the reasons behind the sector’s sluggish growth and address obstacles and possible manipulation through appropriate interventions. He also called for open discussions on the Advertising Board, advertising policies and government support.
With technology rapidly transforming the advertising market he said industry stakeholders should participate in shaping long-term policies over the next five to 10 years.
FNCCI President Anjan Shrestha said advertising should be viewed as a strategic investment that builds brands, consumer trust and long-term market value rather than merely an expense.
Nepal Chamber of Commerce Acting Chair Deepak Malhotra urged the government to treat the private sector as an economic partner.
The Kriti Awards were established to promote quality and creativity in Nepal’s advertising industry.
