Finance Minister Wagle: “Private Sector Will No Longer Need to Pay Bribes or Face Unnecessary Detention”

Kathmandu. Finance Minister Dr. Swarnim Wagle has stated that the private sector will no longer need to pay bribes, stand in long queues, or face unnecessary detention in the course of doing business. He made these remarks during a meeting with representatives of the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry on Monday.He emphasized that increasing investment and generating employment are key to driving the country toward economic prosperity. “I have not come to take bribes, nor will I allow others to do so. I am here to steer the economy in a new direction,” he said.Minister Wagle highlighted the government’s commitment to creating a more business-friendly environment through strong collaboration with the private sector. “You will no longer have to pay bribes or suffer administrative hassles. The private sector will not be harassed or unnecessarily detained,” he added.However, he also made it clear that while the government aims to be a supportive partner, it expects honesty from the private sector. Deliberate financial misconduct will be dealt with strictly, he warned.He further noted that instead of imprisonment for minor economic offenses, the government plans to adopt a system of financial penalties, ensuring a more practical and fair approach to regulation.