Kathmandu Accountants Conference: Nepal Tax Reform & Public Finance Modernization
9th April 2025, Kathmandu
The Fourth National Accountants Conference started in Kathmandu under the theme “Transforming the Economy through Modernization of Taxation and Public Financial Management.” The two-day event has brought together over 1,000 accounting professionals from across Nepal and South Asia.
Kathmandu Accountants Conference
Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Bishnu Prasad Paudel officially opened the conference. He emphasized the need for tax system reforms and better public financial management (PFM). He said a modern and efficient tax system is critical for Nepal’s economic growth.
Paudel highlighted the government’s plan to expand the tax base, improve policy structure, and control tax evasion. He thanked accountants for supporting transparency and good governance. “We look to accountants to ensure public funds are used effectively and responsibly,” he said.
Planning Commission Backs Conference Goals
Dr. Shivaraj Adhikari, Vice Chair of the National Planning Commission, said the conference supports the country’s economic agenda. He stressed the importance of enhancing revenue collection and boosting the impact of public spending.
He recommended that the government stop allocating budgets to projects under Rs. 30 million. According to him, this step would help focus resources on meaningful development work.
Role of Accountants in Policy Transformation
ICAN President CA Prabin Kumar Jha said the conference would guide future tax and finance policies. He urged the government to use the ideas shared during the sessions in the upcoming national budget.
Jha called for the use of digital technology, data analytics, and international standards to strengthen Nepal’s tax system. “We have made progress, but much more remains,” he noted.
Calls for Transparency and Digitization
AuDAN Senior Vice President Badri Prasad Bhattarai highlighted the need for a more transparent and accountable tax system. He said strong PFM practices are essential to uphold fiscal discipline.
ACAN President Arun Raut pointed out that digitization in Nepal’s tax system is still slow. He called for the quick adoption of digital platforms to improve both tax compliance and government service delivery.
Experts Emphasize Technology in Finance
Deputy Auditor General Bamdev Sharma Adhikari stressed the role of solid tax policy in national development. He said a fair and efficient tax system helps create a stable base for economic progress.
From India, ICAI President Charanjot Singh Nanda presented a paper on the benefits of digital tools in public finance. He explained how technology helps improve transparency and efficiency in managing public funds.
SAFA President Asfak Yusuf Tola, the keynote speaker, shared new ideas on taxation and financial management. He said future reforms must focus on technology use and sustainable economic goals.
Conference Aims to Offer Practical Solutions
The conference includes seven expert-led sessions. These sessions will focus on taxation, auditing, accounting standards, and public financial management. Professionals from Nepal and abroad will present ideas and discuss solutions to the country’s pressing financial challenges.
Conclusion
Organized by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nepal (ICAN), the conference shows Nepal’s strong push for financial reform. The accounting sector is now expected to play a key role in shaping tax policies, enhancing governance, and driving economic transformation.
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