Hetauda Textile Revival: Nepal’s government is stepping up field inspections and preparations to restart the long-shuttered Hetauda Textile Industry, with officials saying the machinery is largely usable after minor repairs and the Prime Minister’s Office is leading the push. Roads & Logistics: The Nagdhunga–Muglin road expansion is facing further delays, with the project citing petroleum price hikes, bitumen shortages, and issues relocating electric poles—raising costs and disrupting economic activity. Energy Storage: A push for solar-plus-battery storage is gaining attention as Nepal looks to reduce dry-season hydropower vulnerability and improve export value during peak demand. Trade & Industry Policy: The Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supplies plans laws for trade secrets and geographical indications, plus training and standards support to strengthen Nepal’s intellectual property and export readiness. Banking for Production: Industrialists ask NRB to allow working-capital loans up to 60% of turnover, urging differentiated rules for manufacturing versus trading. Gold & Consumer Impact: Gold demand dipped after customs duty on gold and silver imports was doubled to 20%, keeping domestic prices high despite falling global bullion rates. Agriculture: Wheat production in Madhesh Province declined due to adverse weather, affecting a key staple region. Tourism & Local Growth: Gandaki Province targets doubling foreign tourist arrivals in five years, backing air connectivity and trekking/religious route development. Digital Payments Trend: India’s UPI is expanding globally, with Cambodia adopting the system—another signal for South Asia’s payments modernization. Health & Food Security: Bird flu has spread rapidly into Kathmandu Valley, hitting poultry trade and forcing intensified culling and response efforts. Infrastructure Push: Government unveiled a three-year infrastructure strategy worth about Rs 1.15 trillion, aiming to speed up roads, urban upgrades, drinking water, and sports facilities.