Finance Minister Rameshwar Prasad Khanal has stressed that import-based consumption must be gradually replaced by domestic production to support sustainable economic growth. Speaking at a program organized by the Department of Customs on the occasion of the 74th International Customs Day, he stated that improving the national economy would not be easy without increasing internal production.
He pointed out that goods which could be produced domestically are being unnecessarily imported and said such imports should be controlled through laws and regulations. Highlighting the need for a clear policy framework to promote domestic production and strengthen the economy, Finance Minister Khanal said priority has been given to the effective implementation of the Customs Act and the early introduction of the Customs Regulations.
Referring to demands raised by the private sector, the Finance Minister said that several issues are being addressed gradually. He noted that criticism is natural in the initial phase of reform initiatives and emphasized that reform is a continuous process that requires strong commitment from leadership at all levels.
Finance Minister Khanal also expressed concern over the growing problem of drug abuse in the Tarai districts and questioned how goods banned from import into Nepal are still entering the country. On the occasion of International Customs Day, he announced that the system of issuing certificates of origin exclusively through the National Single Window has been implemented. Going forward, certificates of origin will be issued online with QR codes.
This article was originally published on https://bajarkochirfar.com. Translated with the help of AI and reviewed by our editorial team.
