Unveiling the Controversy: Nepal’s Surprising Questions on India, Coffee Trade, and Border Issues

Being invited as a panelist at Nepal’s first-ever Coffee Expo & Summit 2023, organized by the National Coffee Producers Association (NCPA), was an exhilarating opportunity for me. As an entrepreneur deeply passionate about coffee, I was eager to share my experiences and insights on coffee culture, entrepreneurship, technology, women empowerment, and the role of digital marketing in uplifting Nepal’s coffee industry. Little did I know that the question round would take an unexpected turn, posing challenges I had not anticipated.

A Vibrant Exchange of Entrepreneurial Experiences 

As the panel discussion commenced, I felt a sense of camaraderie among fellow entrepreneurs who shared their remarkable journeys in the coffee industry. It was inspiring to witness their unwavering passion, determination, and commitment to their coffee dreams. We explored diverse topics, including global coffee culture, sustainable practices, rising coffee prices, innovation & technology, and the transformative power of entrepreneurship. The discussions reaffirmed my belief in the potential of coffee as a vehicle for economic growth, job creation, and cultural exchange.

Empowering Women and Engaging Youth 

One of the highlights of the panel discussion was the spotlight on women empowerment and youth engagement in the coffee industry. We delved into the challenges faced by women entrepreneurs, such as limited access to resources, gender biases, and societal norms. It was a powerful moment when we collectively acknowledged the importance of targeted support programs to enable women to thrive as coffee entrepreneurs. Similarly, engaging the youth was seen as a means to infuse fresh perspectives, creativity, and sustainability into the industry.

Navigating the Digital Landscape 

The panel also explored the impact of digital marketing and technology on the coffee industry. We examined the potential of social media, e-commerce platforms, and online marketing strategies in reaching a broader audience, telling the story of Nepali coffee, and forging direct trade relationships. It was evident that embracing digital platforms was no longer a luxury but a necessity for coffee entrepreneurs to establish their brands and connect with coffee enthusiasts worldwide.

Unexpected Challenges and Steadfast Resilience 

During the question round at the panel discussion, the moderator unexpectedly shifted the focus towards India, illegal border trade, and inferior coffee supply. As a representative from Curly Brew, (a coffee-centric digital media company) not directly involved with India  or trade matters, I momentarily felt off balance. However, I remained composed, diplomatically answered the questions to uphold the honor and dignity of both countries. Despite the unexpected challenge, I refocused the conversation on the core themes, demonstrating adaptability and resilience to stay positive and centered on the advancements in the coffee industry.

My experience as a panelist at Nepal’s Coffee Expo & Summit 2023 was a journey filled with insights, inspiration, and unexpected challenges. The discussions on entrepreneurship, youth engagement, women empowerment, and digital marketing showcased the immense potential of Nepal’s coffee industry. Despite the unanticipated questions, the event served as a platform for meaningful conversations, networking, and collective growth, reinforcing my belief in the transformative power of coffee and its ability to empower individuals and communities.