SEJON publishes book of Finance Minister Dr Wagle's articles analysing Nepal’s economic landscape

KATHMANDU: Society of Economic Journalists Nepal (SEJON) has published a book by Finance Minister Dr Swarnim Wagle.

The volume, titled 'Arthanitima Dr Swarnim Wagleko Drishti: Samriddhi, Asamanata Ra Sudharka Varshaun Dekhika Bahas' (Dr Swarnim Wagle’s Vision on Economic Policy: Years of Debates on Prosperity, Inequality, and Reform), was launched by Minister Wagle at the Ministry of Finance on Monday.

The book brings together eight articles by Dr Wagle that SEJON had published at various times, organised around thematic specialisations. The articles analyse Nepal’s economic landscape over a decade from 2071 BS to 2080 BS and address issues such as trade costs among South Asian countries, the economic implications of federalism, the end of crony capitalism, and changes in international aid.

At the launch, Finance Minister Wagle said the book serves as a reminder of his past advocacy for reform and as a tool to help stakeholders understand his perspective. He mentioned that many reform proposals he raised earlier as a subject expert were not acted upon, and that his current executive role allows him to implement those agendas.

"Reform work will be carried out based on these documents," Wagle said, stressing that the agendas for economic reform raised in the past are contained in the book.

Finance Minister Wagle highlighted the country's stagnant productivity, arguing that minor adjustments will no longer suffice and calling instead for comprehensive structural change. He advocated for what he described as "Big Bang Reform" and identified digitalisation, clean energy and tourism as the main strengths that could help Nepal reach an economy of over $100 billion.

On the occasion, SEJON President Bhagwat Bhattrai said the primary objective of publishing the book is to bring the Finance Minister’s thoughts and perspective on Nepal’s economy to the general public and stakeholders. He added that the collection would also help journalists evaluate the minister’s policies and practices.

The publication consolidates a decade of policy analysis from a figure who has transitioned from expert commentator to policymaker, and its launch by the sitting finance minister signals an intent to link past proposals with current reform efforts.