NCC Welcomes NRB Governor Poudel: Economic Reforms & Financial Inclusion
23rd May 2025, Kathmandu
The Nepal Chamber of Commerce (NCC) extended warm congratulations to Dr. Biswo Nath Poudel, the newly appointed Governor of Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB). The Chamber also shared key recommendations for revitalizing the economy.
NCC Welcomes NRB Governor Poudel
A delegation, led by NCC Acting President Deepak Kumar Malhotra, visited the NRB office in Baluwatar. They offered their best wishes for Dr. Poudel’s tenure.
Recognition of Expertise
The NCC praised Dr. Poudel’s background in financial and economic policy. In a press statement, the Chamber said Dr. Poudel is known for his deep understanding and long experience in shaping Nepal’s financial policies.
“We see your appointment as a step toward meaningful reforms and long-term stability,” stated the Chamber.
They believe Dr. Poudel’s leadership can play a critical role in strengthening financial governance.
Strategic Goals Suggested
The Chamber encouraged the Governor to focus on national priorities. These include inflation control, foreign reserve stability, and stronger financial inclusion.
They emphasized the need to improve access to finance, especially in underserved sectors. The Chamber wants policies that support small businesses, digital finance, and economic equality.
Malhotra said the Governor’s leadership will be vital in energizing the economy.
“Your decisions can shape the country’s financial future,” he added.
Importance of Budget and Monetary Coordination
Malhotra stressed the importance of coordination between fiscal and monetary policies. He said Nepal’s economy needs synchronized strategies to regain momentum.
The NCC believes that only a well-aligned approach between the national budget and the central bank’s policies can bring positive change.
“We expect the upcoming budget and monetary policy to work in harmony,” said Malhotra.
This, according to him, is the key to unlocking growth.
Reforms to Boost Financial Inclusion
The NCC expressed hope that NRB will promote inclusive finance. They called for digital systems that reach more people and support micro, small, and medium enterprises.
They also urged the central bank to modernize financial tools and simplify access to capital.
Malhotra suggested that NRB adopt a facilitative and forward-looking role.
“The central bank should help businesses, not just regulate them,” he noted.
Private Sector Still Struggling
The Chamber raised concerns about the private sector’s struggles. They blame restrictive policies of the past four years for creating a credit crunch and slowing economic activity.
Many entrepreneurs have suffered losses due to limited access to working capital. The Chamber said businesses need more credit to survive and grow.
They called on NRB to improve credit flow and restore market confidence.
Specific Policy Demands
The NCC made a strong case against the current working capital loan directive. They argued that it has blocked businesses from accessing funds.
The Chamber demanded the cancellation of the directive. They said it discourages investment and hampers the daily operations of small and medium-sized firms.
“We want policies that support, not restrict, entrepreneurs,” the statement read.
They also suggested expanding refinance options and easing lending procedures.
Digital and Inclusive Finance as Priorities
The NCC expects NRB to focus more on digital transformation. They said Nepal must invest in digital financial services to expand reach and reduce costs.
They also asked the central bank to prioritize inclusion. According to the Chamber, many rural and low-income citizens still lack access to financial services.
“Inclusion should be a guiding principle, not an afterthought,” the NCC added.
Hope for the Future
The Chamber believes Dr. Poudel’s appointment comes at a turning point. They hope his leadership will bring strong reforms, economic stability, and private sector growth.
They pledged to support the central bank through partnerships and dialogue.
“We are ready to work together for economic recovery,” Malhotra affirmed.
The NCC closed its remarks by calling on all stakeholders to support the Governor. They said this is the time to rebuild trust in Nepal’s economy and financial institutions.
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