Federation of Commerce and Industry Chairman Anjan Shrestha Faces Government Dissatisfaction
Summary
Government dissatisfaction is growing with Federation of Nepal Industries and Commerce Chairman Anjan Shrestha after a series of public criticisms and confrontations with ministers and the prime minister. Sources say the government is now bypassing the federation and holding direct talks with sector-specific business groups.
Key Points
- Anjan Shrestha, chairman of the Federation of Nepal Industries and Commerce, had initially promised cooperation with the government but later began publicly criticizing its policies and decisions.
- Sources say Prime Minister Balen Shah and Finance Minister Dr. Swarnim Wagle have become dissatisfied with Shrestha’s style and are now engaging directly with sector-specific business groups.
- Shrestha has repeatedly attacked the government on issues including taxes, industrial policy, electricity supply, and dedicated/trunk line charges.
- Some federation members also believe his approach has weakened the organization’s ability to lobby effectively for the broader private sector.
