Following the government’s strict enforcement of mandatory Maximum Retail Price (MRP) labeling on imported goods at customs points, cargo vehicles have come to a halt at major trade checkpoints. With the implementation of MRP, traders have stopped importing goods, raising concerns about shortages and price hikes of daily consumer products in the market. While consumer rights activists have labeled the traders’ opposition as “reckless,” the government insists on firmly upholding this regulation. Kathmandu, May 3.
The government’s decision to strictly implement compulsory MRP labeling on goods imported at customs has led to confusion and stagnation at key trade borders across the country. The Department of Commerce, Supply and Consumer Protection introduced this measure to prevent consumer fraud; however, due to practical challenges in enforcement, long queues of cargo vehicles have formed at customs points in Birgunj, Bhairahawa, Nepalgunj, Rasuwa, and Mechi. Traders are refusing to clear goods without MRP indicated at customs.
The slowdown in imports through major checkpoints such as Birgunj, Bhairahawa, and Rasuwagadhi could lead to shortages of daily consumer goods and potential inflation in the local markets. Nevertheless, customs authorities report that the supply of industrial raw materials and perishable items has not been completely disrupted. Traders have criticized the policy as “impractical” and unfeasible for implementation.
According to Uday Singh Bista, Information Officer at the Customs Office, approximately 1,400 to 1,500 vehicles are currently held up in customs areas. While around 1,200 trucks were detained as of May 1, the number of held cargo trucks is increasing by roughly 100 daily. Although correspondence has been made through the department to the ministry to resolve the issue, no positive developments or solutions have emerged so far.
