Nepal's agricultural imports increased sharply in the first two months of fiscal year 2025/26, according to the latest Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) report for mid-September. The data shows a broad expansion in import composition, driven mainly by higher vegetable inflows. Total imports reached Rs. 305.15 billion (US$2.29 billion), up 16.2% from the same period last year, reflecting growing domestic demand and seasonal gaps in local agricultural production.
Vegetable imports rose 44.8% year-on-year to Rs. 2.97 billion (US$22.3 million), compared with Rs. 2.05 billion (US$15.4 million) during the same period last year. The rise highlights Nepal's continued reliance on imported produce to offset local supply shortages linked to delayed harvests, reduced yields, and inconsistent monsoon conditions.
Economists note that the import growth reflects both a gradual agricultural recovery and continued constraints from earlier input shortages, including higher costs for imported fertilizer and seeds. Demand for vegetables has increased in urban centers, while imports have expanded due to seasonal fluctuations and strong cross-border trade with India, Nepal's primary supplier of perishable goods.
According to analysts, these trends suggest that while Nepal's economy is regaining momentum, the country's dependence on imported food and energy remains a long-term structural issue. They emphasize the need for policies that strengthen agricultural self-sufficiency, including investment in irrigation systems, cold storage infrastructure, and crop diversification. Enhancing domestic supply chains and providing price stability for farmers could help manage import reliance and protect Nepal's trade balance in the years ahead.
Source: NEPSEtrading
