Lumbini: Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Bishnu Prasad Poudel stated that the current government is actively working to raise the morale of the private sector, emphasizing its crucial role in economic growth.

Speaking at a discussion with entrepreneurs in Rupandehi on the upcoming budget and revenue policy for fiscal year 2082/83, Poudel said that significant steps have already been taken. One major move was the amendment of 29 private sector-related laws at once through an ordinance, aiming to create a more investment-friendly environment.

"Our goal is to solve the problems of the private sector and make the environment conducive to doing business in Nepal," Poudel said during the interaction.

During the session, Tanka Prasad Pokharel, President of the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Lumbini, raised concerns over temporary border checkpoints—originally set up during past blockades—now operating as semi-permanent structures, contributing to increased smuggling and confusion among entrepreneurs.

He and other business leaders urged the government to:

-Eliminate redundant and confusing administrative structures

-Establish a one-door service delivery mechanism for efficiency

-Address persistent issues related to trunk lines and dedicated feeders

Also present were Ejaz Alam, President of Confederation of Nepalese Industries, Lumbini, and Dilip Sapkota, President of Rupandehi Industry Association, who both stressed that the upcoming budget should be industry- and business-friendly, focusing on resolving long-standing infrastructure and energy access issues.

The event highlighted a rare moment of open dialogue between the government and the private sector, showing hope for more collaborative policy-making ahead of the new fiscal year.