KATHMANDU: Finance Minister Dr. Swarnim Wagle stepped up consultations with Nepal’s private sector on Monday, holding talks with representatives of major taxpayers, multinational companies and large investors at Singha Durbar.

Representatives from companies including Ncell Axiata, Surya Nepal, Gorkha Brewery, Himalayan Airlines, Hongshi Shivam Cement, Dabur Nepal, Unilever Nepal, Asian Paints, Turkish Airlines, Berger Jenson & Nicholson Nepal, Bottlers Nepal (Terai), Varun Beverages Nepal and Bhotekoshi Power Company attended the meeting.

The meeting comes as the government seeks closer engagement with the private sector. Wagle’s decision to include Ncell in the discussions has also drawn attention amid an ongoing dispute between the government and the telecom operator over its licence.

Addressing the business representatives, Wagle said the companies represented more than just businesses—they were among Nepal’s largest taxpayers, employers and investors and key partners in national development.

“Economic transformation cannot be led by any single ministry, policy or institution. The government and private sector must lead it together,” Wagle said, adding that he had come to hear directly from entrepreneurs who have made major investments and taken significant risks in Nepal.

Wagle said the government’s latest budget had sent a clear message that the private sector would be viewed as a partner, not with suspicion.

He said the government’s priority should not be limited to increasing tax collection but should focus on accelerating the cycle of production, investment, profit and reinvestment.

According to Wagle, higher corporate profits can lead to reinvestment, increased production, job creation, higher incomes, market expansion and ultimately greater government revenue.

“The success of the government and the private sector is interconnected,” Wagle said, emphasizing the need for stronger trust and cooperation between the two sides.