Trade Openness, Economic Development and Economic Sustainability

The First International Conference on Trade Openness, Economic Development, and Economic Sustainability, held in March 2023 in Kathmandu, brought together academics, policymakers, and practitioners to explore the intersections of trade liberalization, sustainable development, and economic resilience. Organized under the WTO Chairs Programme, the event featured keynote speeches, panel discussions, and the presentation of 14 selected research papers across three thematic tracks: current practices and adaptation, trade potential and sustainability, and investment in trade infrastructure and logistics.
Key discussions emphasized the necessity of open economies for fostering innovation, competitiveness, and inclusive growth, while acknowledging the challenges posed by global protectionism, climate change, and policy inefficiencies. Presenters explored topics such as circular economy in tourism, greening monetary policy, climate-induced migration, sustainable business practices, and digital economy frameworks. The conference highlighted Nepal’s trade deficits, reliance on neighboring countries, and the need for diversification and policy reform.
Award-winning papers addressed climate change’s impact on migration and the environmental consequences of liberalization. The conference concluded with calls for evidence-based policymaking, stronger institutional collaboration, and enhanced capacity-building to ensure Nepal’s effective integration into global value chains and sustainable economic development.