NRB Pre-Budget Report Nepal FY 2082/83: Economic Analysis, Inflation & Banking
7th May 2025, Kathmandu
Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) has submitted its pre-budget review report for the fiscal year 2082/83. The central bank presented the report to the Ministry of Finance on May 7. Acting Governor Dr. Neelam Dhungana Timsina handed it over to Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Bishnu Prasad Paudel.
NRB Pre-Budget Report Nepal
The submission took place during a formal meeting in Kathmandu. According to NRB, the report includes observations from field visits, stakeholder consultations, and regional assessments.
Field Visits Informed the Report
Dr. Timsina informed that her team visited several parts of the country before finalizing the report. They interacted with local officials, businesses, and economists. These interactions helped shape a practical and data-driven analysis.
She explained that the report focuses on key economic indicators. It evaluates inflation, interest rates, employment trends, and sectoral performance. In addition, it reviews the banking sector, investment flow, and foreign exchange reserves.
The central bank prepared this document to support the government in drafting a balanced and realistic budget.
Finance Minister Welcomes the Report
Finance Minister Paudel appreciated NRB’s efforts. He said the review would support the Ministry in forming next year’s budget. He emphasized that the collaboration between monetary and fiscal authorities was essential.
Paudel added that evidence-based policies help the country navigate economic uncertainty. He mentioned that the government is working to boost productivity and stabilize public finance.
The minister’s office issued a statement noting the importance of the NRB’s findings. It said the pre-budget review would guide the budget’s priorities, including recovery, infrastructure, and employment.
Central Bank’s Recommendations
NRB’s report offers several suggestions. It calls for improving credit flow to productive sectors. It recommends close monitoring of inflation and interest rates. It also highlights the need to strengthen foreign exchange management.
The report encourages digital banking expansion and financial inclusion. It stresses policy reforms to improve capital expenditure and domestic resource mobilization. Moreover, the report underlines the importance of supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
It advises on managing public debt more efficiently. The bank suggests creating buffers to absorb external shocks.
Current Economic Context
Nepal’s economy has faced several challenges recently. Slow capital expenditure, weak private investment, and rising imports have strained the balance of payments. The global economic slowdown and regional tensions have added to uncertainties.
However, recent indicators show signs of gradual recovery. Inflation is easing. Remittances are stable. Tourism has rebounded, and exports are improving.
NRB’s report provides a roadmap for managing these conditions. It suggests that fiscal policies should complement monetary efforts. Coordination between government agencies remains crucial.
Next Steps for the Budget
The Ministry of Finance is currently preparing the national budget for FY 2082/83. According to constitutional provisions, the budget must be presented before the Federal Parliament by the end of Jestha.
The Ministry has already started consultations with stakeholders. These include representatives from the private sector, development partners, civil society, and provincial governments. The NRB’s pre-budget review will play a central role in shaping these discussions.
The Finance Ministry aims to focus on economic growth, employment, industrial development, and digital transformation. Green economy, energy, and tourism are also likely to receive attention.
A Coordinated Effort for Stability
This exchange between NRB and the Finance Ministry signals a strong institutional partnership. It shows a shared commitment to economic reform and policy alignment.
Both institutions are expected to meet again after the national budget is announced. Their coordination will help monitor progress and adjust policies as needed.
Dr. Timsina expressed hope that the report would assist in building a strong fiscal foundation. She said the central bank will continue providing policy support to ensure macroeconomic stability.
The government has welcomed this effort. It believes the report will help manage public expectations and ensure responsible budgeting.
For more: NRB Pre-Budget Report Nepal
