Minister Prithvi Subba Gurung said new laws are being developed for social media, and the government aims to have the digital economy contribute 3% to the GDP.

He noted major cyber security problems and said a new law combining cyber security with IT laws is in the works. He also stressed the need for laws related to Nepal Telecom and the Telecommunications Authority.

He said that without proper regulation, the Telecommunications Authority is chaotic and telecom companies compete unfairly. Even small issues lead to lawsuits that block work. For example, lawsuits were filed to stop the construction of 152 towers after a tender was announced.

He said the new law will soon be presented in Parliament after getting approval from the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Law, Justice, and Parliamentary Affairs, and that it will be completed this year. Minister Gurung shared this while launching the Gurung Heritage Trail and its map in the capital on Friday. He believes the trail will boost tourism and added, “We are working with dedication and need everyone’s support, including from the media.”