A total of 605 electric vehicles (EVs) were imported into Nepal via the Rasuwagadhi customs point during the month of Baisakh (mid-April to mid-May), generating Rs 1.49 billion in revenue, according to the Rasuwagadhi Customs Office.
Among the imports were 500 units of cars, jeeps, and vans valued at Rs 1.20 billion, and 105 units of trucks, mini-trucks, and lorries worth Rs 290 million.
In the first ten months of the current Fiscal Year 2024/25, Rasuwagadhi alone facilitated the entry of 5,701 EVs worth Rs 13.77 billion, contributing Rs 8.39 billion in revenue. The highest monthly imports were recorded in Bhadra with 1,000 units, followed by 773 in Mangsir, 612 in Kartik, and 605 in Baisakh.
Popular brands entering Nepal through this point include BYD, MG, JAC, XPeng, Radar, Skywell, Kinglong, and Higer, with BYD and Microvans making up the majority of shipments.
Officials attribute the recent spike in EV imports to growing concerns among importers over a possible tax hike in the upcoming Fiscal Year 2025/26. Currently, around 2,000 additional EVs are awaiting customs clearance at Rasuwagadhi.
Similarly, the Tatopani Customs Office cleared nearly 1,000 EVs in Baisakh and reported a total collection of Rs 3 billion in EV-related revenue by the end of Chaitra (mid-April). Both customs points have experienced mounting pressure as traders rush to import EVs ahead of the new fiscal policy.
