Import of gold into Nepal surged nearly sixfold in the first quarter of the current fiscal year (FY 2025/26), despite a significant rise in global gold prices.
According to the Department of Customs (DoC), Nepal imported 606 kilograms of gold between mid-July and mid-October this year, compared to just 113.5 kilograms during the same period last fiscal year.
Gold traders said investors were drawn to the precious metal due to expectations of higher returns amid rising prices. Data from the Federation of Nepal Gold and Silver Dealers’ Association shows that gold prices climbed by more than Rs 60,000 per tola (11.66 grams) during the review period — from Rs 193,300 per tola in mid-July to over Rs 250,000 per tola by mid-October.
Amid growing demand, the Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) raised the daily gold import quota from 20 kg to 25 kg. During the review period, Nepal imported raw gold worth Rs 10.25 billion and gold jewelry worth Rs 71.50 million, generating Rs 1.023 billion in customs revenue for the government.
