Keep taxpayers satisfied: Minister Wagle

Kathmandu, July 23

Finance Minister Dr. Swarnim Wagle has instructed tax administrators to collect revenue by keeping taxpayers satisfied, not by intimidating them.

Addressing tax officers under the Inland Revenue Department (IRD) from across the country at the department's headquarters in Lazimpat on Thursday, he urged officials to adopt a taxpayer-friendly approach.

"Collect taxes by keeping taxpayers happy, not by harassing them, I want to hear people say that the tax administration has improved significantly, that paying taxes is no longer a burden, and that no one feels intimidated," " he said in a statement issued by his secretariat.

FM Dr. Wagle instructed tax administrators to expand the tax net through voluntary tax compliance rather than through coercion or fear.

"I do not want to hear that taxpayers are joining the tax system because they are frightened. Nor should there be a situation where anyone feels compelled to hide from paying taxes," the finance minister said.

He also encouraged officials to speak openly if they faced shortages of manpower, infrastructure, information technology, or any other resources required to strengthen tax administration. He made it clear that the government would spare no effort in rewarding officials who perform exceptionally well and contribute to increasing state revenue, read the statement from his secretariat.

"Taxpayers must be satisfied. Tax officials must facilitate compliance. Revenue targets must be achieved. We must meet the inland revenue target under the Rs 1.6 trillion revenue mission," instructed Dr. Wagle.

Describing this year's budget as a turning point for the economy, Dr. Wagle said it is set to change the country's economic direction. He added that the budget over the next four fiscal years would lay the foundation for the economy the government intends to build.

He directed the IRD's leadership to ensure the effective implementation of the tax relief schemes announced in the budget, make the taxpayer incentive programme a success, enhance taxpayer awareness, and promote the digitalisation of business transactions.

Stating that the ministry was making significant efforts to have Nepal removed from the Financial Action Task Force's grey list, he urged the tax administration to pay close attention to offences related to money laundering.

Dr. Wagle also said that the career development of tax officials would be determined primarily by their performance and contribution to the state. He urged employees not to seek transfers through political or personal influence.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 24 July 2026.