The Department of Commerce, Supply and Consumer Protection (DoCSCP) has made it mandatory to display the Maximum Retail Price (MRP) on cement and iron rods starting Monday, the first day of the Nepali New Year 2082 (April 14).
According to Kumar Dahal, Director General of DoCSCP, manufacturers have been instructed to clearly mention the factory gate price on their products, while dealers have agreed to sell the materials at the listed MRP. “Both manufacturers and dealers have expressed their consent to comply with the new rule,” Dahal stated.
Previously, on April 2, the DoCSCP issued a public notice mandating MRP tagging for all products, except those sold by weight or measurement. However, cement and iron rod manufacturers initially voiced dissatisfaction with the directive.
The move comes in response to mounting criticism over recent price hikes in construction materials. Last month, cement prices surged by Rs 150 per sack, and iron rods jumped from Rs 76 to Rs 90 per kilogram, triggering public outcry.
Dahal emphasized that the MRP enforcement aims to curb overpricing and ensure transparency. “We’re supporting manufacturers technically and have intensified market inspections to make the rule effective,” he said.
The new rule also requires manufacturers to include detailed product information such as the name of the producer, manufacturing and expiry dates, batch number, applicable taxes, and quality certifications. Products must also carry visual signs or labels indicating quality standards.
In addition, the department has made MRP labeling mandatory on imported vegetables and fruits that are sold in packaged form. However, the rule does not apply to locally grown farm products.
Despite a similar attempt in 2012, the government struggled to implement MRP enforcement due to pressure from business groups. With the backing of the Consumer Protection Act 2018, the DoCSCP now appears more determined to uphold consumer rights and bring accountability to the market.
