Information and connectivity are at the core of how modern societies function, and Nepal is rapidly embracing advancements in technology, media, and telecommunications (TMT). This sector includes telecom operators providing mobile, internet, and satellite services; information technology companies developing software and providing IT-enabled services; traditional and digital media companies (TV channels, radio, newspapers, and online news portals); and emerging fields like e-commerce platforms, fintech services, and content streaming providers. The TMT industry is one of the most influential globally and is increasingly so in Nepal, offering high growth opportunities and attracting significant foreign investment and innovation. With that, it also faces a complex regulatory environment: telecom services are tightly controlled by the Nepal Telecommunications Authority through licensing and spectrum allocation; media outlets are subject to content regulations, censorship norms, and broadcasting laws; IT and online services must consider data protection laws, cyber-security regulations, and intellectual property rights. The rapid evolution of technology means laws often lag behind practice, but regulators in Nepal have been active – imposing quality of service standards, drafting e-commerce and data privacy regulations, and scrutinizing competition in the tech sector – making it crucial for companies to stay ahead of legal compliance.

Our firm provides comprehensive legal support to clients in the Technology, Media & Telecommunications sectors. For telecommunications companies, we advise on the full scope of needs: obtaining telecom licenses (for basic telephony, mobile, ISP, etc.), license renewals, spectrum purchases, interconnection agreements between operators, and compliance with regulatory conditions (like quality benchmarks, tariff regulations, and subscriber verification norms). We have represented operators in negotiations with the government on infrastructure sharing and USO (Universal Service Obligation) matters, and in disputes or appeals against regulatory decisions. In the technology domain, Gandhi & Associates assists software developers, IT service providers, and tech start-ups with matters such as company formation under special tech-friendly regulations, IP protection for software and algorithms, employee confidentiality and invention assignment agreements, and cross-border technology transfer or outsourcing contracts. We are attuned to data protection and cybersecurity issues – advising clients on protecting personal data, complying with emerging privacy laws in Nepal, and managing responses to data breaches or cyber incidents in line with both local and international best practices. For media and entertainment companies, our team handles issues around content licensing, broadcasting rights, film production agreements, and compliance with content standards (for example, ensuring publications and broadcasts don’t violate public decency or incitement laws). We also cover digital media law, advising social media companies and digital platforms on liability for user content, takedown compliance, and advertising regulations. Across all TMT sub-sectors, our lawyers stay up-to-date with policy changes and industry trends (such as the introduction of 5G services, fintech regulations, or OTT content rules) to provide forward-looking advice. We pride ourselves on combining legal rigour with an understanding of the fast-paced, innovative nature of TMT businesses, thus enabling our clients to pursue innovation and expansion with confidence in their legal foundation.

Representative Experience:

• Advised a leading private mobile network operator in Nepal on regulatory and operational matters, including license compliance, spectrum fee obligations, interconnection disputes, and consumer protection issues related to billing and service quality. We also represented the client in high-level regulatory consultations concerning infrastructure expansion and service standards;
• Advised Nepal’s telecommunications regulatory authority on legal and policy matters related to sector regulation, including reviewing license frameworks and drafting guidelines to align national regulation with international telecom norms and best practices.
• Counseled a U.S.-based cybersecurity firm on setting up its Nepal operations, including incentives under Nepali law, data protection obligations for global clients, and labor law compliance for local and expatriate tech staff;
• Assisted a regional telecom infrastructure contractor working with a global telecom equipment manufacturer in drafting and negotiating service agreements for network rollout, and advising on import compliance and equipment type-approval requirements; and
• Advised a satellite and cable television operator in Nepal on licensing, content distribution, and compliance with national broadcasting and foreign content policies.