Kathmandu — With the objective of establishing Nepal’s accounting and auditing services as globally competitive and increasing employment and income through service exports, the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nepal (ICAN) has officially unveiled the ‘Global Accounting Initiative in Nepal (GAIN)’ project.

The project was formally launched at a program held in the capital on Wednesday. According to ICAN, the core objectives of the initiative are to brand Nepal as a reliable outsourcing destination centered on accounting and financial services, develop strategic partnerships, and create sustainable employment opportunities.

Under the GAIN project, ICAN has set a target of creating more than 50,000 jobs annually within five years, and over 150,000 jobs within the next ten years. During this period, the project also aims to bring in approximately NPR 80 billion annually into the country through service exports.

The project prioritizes the development of regulatory and institutional frameworks required for accounting outsourcing, the construction of secure digital infrastructure, workforce training in line with international standards, and the expansion of high-quality services. It also plans to promote innovation and entrepreneurship through the establishment of outsourcing hubs, digital platforms, and incubation centers.

ICAN President Neel Bahadur Saru Magar stated that the GAIN project will be implemented as a regular program starting from the upcoming fiscal year. He noted that given the strong presence of countries such as India, Bangladesh, Vietnam, and the Philippines in the global market, Nepal also holds significant potential to compete effectively.

“We must create an environment where accounting services can be delivered to institutions across the world while staying in Nepal,” he said. “Skill development and policy clarity are essential to establish Nepal as a South Asian outsourcing hub.”

Speaking at the event, Santosh Bista, Deputy Director of ICAN, shared that the institute is currently implementing its five-year strategic plan (2081–2085). He emphasized Nepal’s strong potential to provide cost-effective and high-quality accounting services to large economies. The project plans to conduct targeted digital promotion in potential markets including the UK, Australia, the United States, and the European Union, produce high-quality promotional materials, and expand opportunities through collaboration with Nepali communities abroad.

Additionally, the project includes plans to run specialized certification programs related to globally used accounting software and outsourcing, establish a national talent registration system, and develop outsourcing-focused curricula. ICAN expects that policy reforms such as tax incentives, clarity on value-added tax, simplification of foreign exchange procedures, strengthening data protection laws, facilitating overseas branch operations for Nepali companies, and fast-tracking foreign investment approvals will play a crucial role in the project’s success.

ICAN further expressed confidence that, following the implementation of the project, Nepali audit firms and professionals will strengthen their presence in international markets and contribute to the national economy through increased service exports.