Finance Minister Dr. Swarnim Wagle has assured the private sector of a more business-friendly environment, stating that practices such as bribery, long bureaucratic queues, and unnecessary detention will no longer hinder business operations.
Speaking at a meeting with representatives of the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Wagle emphasized that the government is committed to acting as a partner to the private sector. “The private sector will no longer suffer. We are your partners. Now you won’t have to pay bribes, wait in lines, or be detained,” he said.
He underscored his firm stance against corruption, adding, “I have not come to take bribes, nor will I allow anyone else to do so. I have come to steer the country’s economic ship in a new direction.”
The finance minister also announced a shift in how financial misconduct will be handled. Instead of imprisonment, offenders will face monetary penalties. However, he made it clear that the government will take strict action against deliberate wrongdoing.
Wagle expressed confidence that with the state acting as a supportive partner, the private sector will maintain honesty and accountability. Nonetheless, he warned that any intentional financial misconduct would be met with firm and uncompromising measures.
