As annual festivals such as Dashain, Tihar, and Chhath approach, consumers have expressed complaints about having to purchase sugar at high prices. However, officials have stated that there is no shortage of sugar in the market and have urged consumers not to pay more than necessary. Consumers have reported sugar prices reaching NPR 130 or higher at stores. Nonetheless, representatives from the Salt Trading Corporation and the Food Management and Trade Company have advised consumers to avoid buying excessive quantities of sugar or paying inflated prices.
Due to complaints related to black market sugar sales or price hikes, the Department of Commerce, Supply, and Consumer Protection has intensified its monitoring efforts. After a month of oversight on sugar prices, department officials have reported that no stores have been found in violation requiring penalties. Through a government-to-government agreement, 10,000 quintals of sugar have been imported from India to Birgunj, Nepal, while 25,000 quintals are being procured from local producers, and the government has authorized the import of an additional 25,000 quintals, according to the Food Management and Trade Company Limited.
The company reports that sugar prices are maintained at NPR 109 per kilogram in Kathmandu and NPR 110 per kilogram nationwide, and distribution is ongoing through sales outlets. Madhav Mishra, the company’s information officer, stated, “When purchased from our office, sugar is available at NPR 110 per kilogram even in regions such as Humla, Jumla, Kalikot, and Taplejung.”
Every year during the festival season, consumers tend to perceive a shortage of sugar. However, this year Salt Trading Corporation officials have clarified that there is no shortage to ensure that consumers do not face undue difficulties. Kumar Rajbhandari, Deputy Chief of Salt Trading Corporation, said, “We urge consumers not to worry excessively and refrain from buying sugar in larger amounts or at inflated prices. Adequate sugar is available at stalls operated by Salt Trading, the Food Institute, and the Food Trade Company.”
The Department of Commerce, Supply, and Consumer Protection has strengthened monitoring of sugar and other essential food items and continues to check prices and availability regularly. Anil Kiranti, the department’s information officer, stated that so far no evidence has been found to warrant action against any shop during these inspections.
