Nepal spent Rs 609.45 billion on the import of goods in the first four months of the current fiscal year—an increase of Rs 96.07 billion compared to the same period last fiscal year.
According to data from the Department of Customs (DoC), imports rose by 18.71 percent from Rs 513.38 billion recorded in mid-November of FY 2024/25. A significant rise in the import of petroleum products and crude edible oils contributed to the sharp increase in the import bill.
Major Imports
- Diesel: 347,412 kiloliters worth Rs 31.89 billion
- Petrol: 258,363 kiloliters worth Rs 22.37 billion
- Cooking gas (LPG): Rs 18.08 billion
Nepal also imported 200 million liters of crude soybean oil valued at Rs 30.87 billion.
Gold imports were notable as well, with 902 kg purchased for Rs 15.72 billion.
Trade and Deficit
Total trade volume reached Rs 702.94 billion, up 24.18 percent compared to the same period last year.
The trade deficit widened to Rs 515.95 billion, rising from Rs 460.71 billion.
Export Performance
Exports increased impressively, with earnings reaching Rs 93.49 billion—a 77.51 percent rise from Rs 52.67 billion last year.
Key export items included:
- Processed soybean oil: 185.25 million kg worth Rs 38.43 billion
- Sunflower oil: Rs 2.73 billion
- Palm oil: Rs 2.06 billion
- Large cardamom: Rs 3.97 billion
- Textiles and woolen carpets: Over Rs 2 billion each
Due to substantial export growth, the share of export earnings reached 13 percent of total trade volume—up from 9 percent last fiscal year.
Slowing Growth Trend
Despite high overall growth, both import and export growth rates eased in the fourth month.
- Import growth: 20 percent
- Export growth: 90 percent
(based on DoC data for the first three months)
Nepal’s trade continues to expand, but the widening trade deficit remains a major challenge.
