Minister for Industry, Commerce and Supplies, Damodar Bhandari, has underscored the need for collective responsibility in advancing Nepal’s economic reform agenda. He stressed that real progress hinges on sustained cooperation between the government and the private sector.

Speaking as the chief guest at the ninth edition of the NewBiz Conclave and Business Excellence Awards 2025 in Kathmandu on Thursday, Bhandari noted that the government’s ongoing reform drive—centred on structural and legal change—relies on public trust and private initiative.

He commended the work of the High-Level Economic Reforms Recommendation Commission, saying the government remains firmly committed to its second-phase reform programme. This agenda prioritises policy and legal reforms, innovation-led growth, stronger public–private partnerships, and inclusive, sustainable economic development, he added.

Highlighting the importance of honouring business excellence, Bhandari remarked, “Recognising outstanding business performance shines a spotlight on the value of entrepreneurship. These awards not only honour past achievements but inspire future success.”

Earlier in the day, former Finance Secretary Rameshore Khanal, delivering the keynote, called for a new wave of home-grown, structural reforms to revive investor confidence and accelerate economic growth. As Chair of the High-Level Economic Reforms Recommendation Commission, Khanal laid out key governance and legal barriers impeding economic momentum—from opaque political financing to outdated, restrictive laws.

The conclave also featured a high-level panel discussion centred on the theme “Driving Growth Through Reform.” Panellists included Gagan Thapa, Member of Federal Parliament and General Secretary of the Nepali Congress; Jabbor Kayumov, CEO of Ncell; Moushumi Shrestha, Executive Director of Shreenagar Agro Group of Companies; and Bal Krishna Joshi, founder of Leapfrog Technology. The session was moderated by advocate Semanta Dahal.

Organised by New Business Age with Asian Paints as the title sponsor, this year's event recognises excellence in nine categories. The prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award would also be provided to an individual with exceptional contributions to the development of trade and commerce in the country.