Finance Minister Dr. Swarnim Wagle Directs Improvement in Revenue Collection and Control of Leakages
Finance Minister Dr. Swarnim Wagle has urged customs and revenue administrators to adopt a targeted approach to improve the pace of revenue collection and control leakages. He has instructed the Customs Department to install vehicle scanner machines at the country’s 14 major customs offices within three months and to repair faulty machines. Emphasizing encouragement over punishment, Minister Wagle stressed educating taxpayers and incentivizing them to broaden the tax base, while calling on staff to work with integrity. (11 Shrawan, Kathmandu)
During the annual revenue review meeting held Monday at the Ministry of Finance, Dr. Wagle addressed the declining momentum in revenue collection and the issue of leakages. He noted that the goals, timelines, and objectives for this year’s revenue collection are clear and urged customs and revenue officials to adopt a purposeful approach, termed “Arjun Vision,” in their work. He also directed that this year’s revenue targets be pursued in a mission-mode approach.
Referring to past data on tax collection in Nepal that highlights deteriorating collection rhythm and substantial leakages, Minister Wagle stated, “This can no longer be tolerated. You must be clear on revenue collection targets, deadlines, and objectives.” He encouraged moving forward with Arjun Vision by motivating rather than intimidating taxpayers to meet targets. Emphasizing the need for scientifically grounded revenue goals, he urged tax administrators to carry out practical and realistic work.
“State-building requires taxes, and tax collection demands your cooperation, honesty, and hard work. Good performance will be rewarded, while wrongdoings will be penalized.” He assured customs, revenue, and internal tax officers that the government is prepared to provide the necessary resources for meeting revenue targets. To expand the tax base, he also directed enhancing public awareness, implementing government-announced waiver schemes effectively, and executing taxpayer incentive programs efficiently.
