The newly appointed CEO of the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB), Deepak Raj Joshi, has vowed to help achieve the government's goal of attracting 1.6 million foreign tourists. This target was set while announcing the budget for the current fiscal year.
Upon assuming office for the second time on Sunday, Joshi outlined his priorities, which include promoting Nepal's tourism internationally by identifying potential markets and areas of growth.
In an interview with RSS, he expressed his commitment to supporting the effective implementation of the Visit Nepal Decade (2023-2031), a campaign announced by the government. Joshi previously held the position of CEO of NTB in 2019, a year that saw the arrival of approximately 1.2 million foreign tourists. His term ended with the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Joshi highlighted the need for more research and studies to support Nepal's tourism sector and promised to address this gap during his tenure. He also revealed that he has drafted a clear plan of action for the next four years, which he plans to implement. According to him, he will soon unveil his detailed working strategy.
He emphasized his commitment to expanding Nepal's tourism industry globally, working in collaboration with the private sector. Joshi identified the shortage of skilled human resources as a major challenge for the industry's growth and pledged to work with relevant agencies to increase the workforce.
On September 5, the 379th meeting of the Nepal Tourism Board's Executive Committee appointed Joshi as CEO for a four-year term, in accordance with the Nepal Tourism Board Act of 1997.
With over two decades of experience in tourism development and promotion, Joshi has held prominent roles such as Destination Committee Chair for the Pacific Asia Travel Association, founding executive member of the World Tourism Network, and Director at the Confederation of Nepalese Industries. He has received several awards, including 'Champion in Challenge', 'Tourism Hero', 'Best CEO', and 'PATA Personality of the Year'. -- RSS
