Saturday, March 22, 2025

Finance Ministry begins preparation for LDC graduation

Kathmandu, Mar. 19

The Ministry of Finance (MoF) has begun preliminary work for the preparation of implementing strategies that Nepal must adopt as it graduates from the Least Developed Country (LDC) category to a 'Developing Nation'.

Nepal is graduating to a 'Developing Nation' in November next year.

During a meeting held at the MoF on Wednesday, Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister, Bishnu Prasad Paudel, emphasised the need for Nepal to proceed with full preparedness. He instructed officials to engage actively in the required tasks for the smooth transition after the graduation.

Vice-Chairman of the National Planning Commission (NPC), Prof. Dr. Shiva Raj Adhikari, underscored the importance of making transitional strategies relevant and advancing them in coordination with all stakeholders.

According to a statement issued by the MoF, the meeting also stressed the need to ensure that the policies, plans, and programmes proposed in the budget for the fiscal year 2025/26 contribute to a smooth and sustainable transition.

The responsibilities of the MoF include formulating a financial policy based on sustainable economic growth and job creation, maintaining a stable monetary policy, ensuring fund availability, and mobilising development assistance.

Likewise, enhancing trade analysis and improving financial access and capacity for high-yield projects also fall under its mandate.

The criteria for Nepal’s graduation include per capita Gross National Income (GNI), the Human Assets Index (HAI), and indicators related to economic and environmental vulnerability.

It is projected that the transition will bring various impacts, such as improved access to development and commercial investment, growth in new trade and economic partnerships, sustainable development, enhanced national reputation, and increased credibility on the global stage.

It is also anticipated to influence exports, pricing, and employment as well.

 Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 20 March 2025.    

No comments:

Post a Comment

Featured Story

Govt prepares primary draft of DRR Policy

Kathmandu, Apr. 29: The government has prepared the preliminary report of the National Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) Policy and Strategic ...