Nepal’s cultural and creative industries have significant potential to drive jobs, innovation, tourism, and sustainable development, but stronger policies and targeted investment are needed to help the sector grow.
This was the focus of the second meeting of the Cultural and Creative Industries (CCI) Friends Group, convened by UNESCO and hosted by Kathmandu Metropolitan City. Government officials, local authorities, development partners, and creative industry representatives discussed ways to strengthen Nepal’s creative economy.
Participants highlighted that cultural and creative industries should be recognized not only as a form of cultural expression but also as an important part of economic development. The sector has the potential to support entrepreneurs, create employment opportunities, and strengthen local communities.
As Nepal updates its cultural policy framework, experts emphasized the need for clearer recognition of creative industries, improved coordination, better financing options, skills development, and stronger support for creators.
Kathmandu Metropolitan City’s role as a UNESCO Creative City of Film demonstrates how cities can connect culture with urban development through heritage protection, research, and creative initiatives. The challenge now is to expand these efforts into wider opportunities for filmmakers, designers, craftspeople, and young creative professionals.
Lalitpur Metropolitan City’s designation as a UNESCO Creative City of Music also highlights the importance of creative education and preserving traditional knowledge. Its initiatives linking music, skills training, and professional opportunities show how culture can contribute to livelihoods and community development.
The meeting also explored international experiences, including regional approaches to strengthening creative economies. Discussions highlighted the importance of integrating cultural industries into wider economic, social, and environmental planning.
A recent assessment of Nepal’s cultural and creative industries identified key areas for improvement, including stronger data collection, collaboration between sectors, better market access, creative entrepreneurship, and skills that connect culture with technology and innovation.
UNESCO representatives stressed that future progress will depend on practical cooperation, clear priorities, and measurable actions. The CCI Friends Group will continue bringing together government bodies, creative professionals, and development partners to address challenges and create stronger conditions for Nepal’s creative sector.
With the right policy support and investment, Nepal’s creative economy can become a powerful driver of inclusive growth, cultural preservation, and sustainable development.
