Author: space4knews

June 16, Kathmandu – Nepali workers who fail to pass the mandatory skill test will no longer be permitted to travel to Saudi Arabia for foreign employment. Starting Wednesday, workers without skill certification will be barred from obtaining labor approval to enter Saudi Arabia.

The Saudi government has made skill certification compulsory for Nepali workers. According to the new regulation, starting this Wednesday, those without a passed skill test will not receive labor permits for Saudi employment.

Saudi Arabia has introduced a Skill Certification program as a prerequisite for labor visa issuance. Workers are required to pay a total fee of 100 US dollars (approximately NPR 15,000), which includes 50 USD for the exam and 50 USD for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL).

To obtain skill certification, workers must upload the required documents online through the “Skills Verification Program” (SVP) portal.

Nepal and Saudi Arabia signed a labor agreement last year, which specifies that recruitment issues should be discussed through a Joint Technical Committee. However, no formal discussions or agreements took place regarding the implementation of the skill certification program. Saudi Arabia has unilaterally imposed the mandatory skill test without consultation or consent from the Nepalese government.

According to a notice issued by Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development, this program aims to verify the professional competency of workers. Even laborers engaged in loading and unloading, porter work, cart driving, and construction sectors are required to undergo the skill test.

Workers must register online and pay the applicable fees via the Saudi SVP’s “Professional Accreditation” portal to take the test. After registration, approved exam centers and dates can be selected. The approximately three-hour-long exam results are expected to be published within 24 hours to one week.

The notification states that each worker will be allowed up to three attempts to pass the exam. Failure after three attempts will disqualify the worker from seeking employment in Saudi Arabia.

The Nepal Foreign Employment Entrepreneurs Association has expressed dissatisfaction with this decision, highlighting concerns that it will impose additional financial burdens on workers and complicate the foreign employment process.

Dik Bahadur Khatri, President of the Nepal Foreign Employment Entrepreneurs Association, criticized the mandate as a “syndicate under the guise of skill testing.” He argued that this system will place heavy financial strain on workers and enable another form of syndicate exploitation.

Drawing on examples from neighboring countries, he stated, “In India, the skill test fee is 20,000 Indian Rupees, while in Bangladesh, a receipt of 3,500 plus a collection of 30,000 Taka is charged. Nepal is preparing for a similar scenario where workers must pay up to NPR 15,000 and wait for a month, which does not serve the interests of the workers.”

Khatri further noted that experienced workers, such as masons who have worked for decades in Qatar and other countries, being forced to pay NPR 15,000 and wait a month for skill certification again is unjust.

He questioned the logic of requiring skill testing for unskilled laborers working in loading and unloading jobs, calling the policy highly controversial and impractical. Khatri also mentioned that the association visited the Ministry of Labor on Tuesday to raise awareness about the issue. However, Labor Minister Ramji Yadav did not allocate time to meet with the entrepreneurs.

“We engaged in discussions for one and a half hours, but the minister did not grant us time. His secretariat seemed to underestimate the seriousness of the issue,” Khatri said. “While there is talk about improving foreign employment abroad, it is not a good signal to encourage such syndicates internally.”

The memorandum submitted to the minister’s secretariat stated that the Nepalese embassy had informed workers traveling to Saudi Arabia, via the information partner, that skill certification has become mandatory. The new regulation entails additional fees, longer processing times, and increased complexity and costs in the employment procedure.

The association urged the minister to engage in diplomatic efforts with Saudi Arabia to find worker-friendly solutions. They also indicated that similar burdens have previously been imposed under the guise of police report certification for UAE migration, and that the new Saudi requirement would cause further hardship for workers.

They warned that failure to take timely action could lead to significant problems in the foreign employment sector.

Highlighting that similar regulations in India and Bangladesh have not been worker-friendly, the association cautioned that Nepal risks repeating the same issues.

June 16, Kathmandu – Complaints about the shortage of cooking LPG gas have surged abruptly across various districts of the country.

From hill areas outside Kathmandu Valley to Terai districts, consumers have been forced to stand in long queues for gas, with both sellers and consumers voicing concerns over the growing problem.

Although the government introduced the “half cylinder” policy to ensure equitable gas distribution and ease supply, business owners and consumers claim that instead of solving the problem, it has exacerbated the shortage.

The policy was implemented by Nepal Oil Corporation (NOC) as a proactive measure considering the risks of fuel supply disruptions amid tensions among the United States, Israel, and Iran.

Following a recommendation from the NOC’s board of directors, gas distribution began on March 13, 2026, with cylinders filled to only 7.1 kilograms instead of the usual full cylinder weight.

Originally intended to last 15 days, this policy has been in effect for three months without any review. Industry representatives argue that this short-term solution to the crisis has unintentionally become the main cause behind the gas shortage.

Consumers from hilly districts like Salyan, Surkhet, and Gulmi to Terai areas such as Janakpur and Sarlahi have reported severe difficulties obtaining gas.

As gas supply shortages began to emerge, some business owners were also suspected of hoarding gas to create artificial scarcity.

The Nepal Gas Sellers Federation counters this claim, attributing the problem not to artificial scarcity but to increased transportation costs under the half cylinder policy and technical complications arising from industries being unable to stock adequate supplies as per demand.

The federation highlighted that in remote and distant districts outside the capital, higher transportation costs have been a key factor leading to delays in gas supply.

Issues in Janakpur

The Janakpur area is facing significant problems in LPG gas supply. Gas seller Ganesh Jha explained that delays from other districts and rising transportation costs have created difficulties in the market.

“It takes a long time for gas to arrive from Birgunj, Bara, and Simra; even when industries send requests, gas arrives only after seven days. What does this imply?” he said. “Previously, gas used to arrive within two or three days, but now it is considerably delayed.”

Jha added that pressure is mounting on sellers and consumers as industries delay supplies and often cite various excuses.

“Whether we bring a full cylinder or half, the vehicle consumes the same amount of fuel. Traveling from Birgunj to Janakpur is about 150 kilometers one way—that means over 300 kilometers for a round trip. This doubles fuel consumption and transportation costs,” he stated.

Due to expensive transportation, industries prioritize gas sales to nearer districts, causing longer wait times for gas in more distant areas.

Situation in Gulmi

The half cylinder policy designed to ease gas supply has failed completely in the hilly district of Gulmi. Increased transportation costs and technical problems have caused hardship for consumers.

Gas seller Maniram Aryal from Gulmi described the situation in hill regions as extremely complicated and unbearable.

He pointed out that due to low pressure in the half-filled cylinders, even household and large industries face operational issues.

“In the 7.1 kg cylinder, about 1 to 1.5 kg of gas settles at the bottom, resulting in insufficient pressure, which hampers functionality,” he explained. “Hotels, restaurants, and bakery industries are especially struggling, with many shifting to coal stoves.”

Transportation costs from Bhairahawa to Gulmi have significantly increased gas prices. According to Aryal, by the time a half cylinder reaches Gulmi, consumers have to pay NPR 1,250.

“Transportation costs are NPR 150 from Bhairahawa, with loading and unloading fees of around NPR 10 each. Due to geographical remoteness, jeep services demand NPR 150-200 to deliver directly to homes,” he added.

Demand in Surkhet Doubled

Surkhet is also experiencing a cooking gas shortage.

Gas seller Binod Dahal from Surkhet stated that there is a substantial gap between gas demand and supply. “Demand in Surkhet is double,” he said, “all because of the half cylinder policy.”

Dahal noted that previously about 25-26 thousand full cylinders were consumed monthly, but now industries have to send half cylinders to meet the same level of demand.

“Earlier, we imported 25-26 thousand full cylinders; now we have to bring 52 thousand half cylinders, but due to a lack of transportation, this is impossible,” he explained. “Currently, only 27-28 thousand half cylinders are arriving, increasing the shortage.”

With limited transport vehicles, it has become difficult to supply half cylinders as per demand, resulting in losses for both industries and consumers.

Following a downed electrical pole in Surkhet, power outage persisted for around 35 days, pushing consumers to rely on gas instead of induction stoves.

LP Gas Industry Association Blames High Transport Costs for Gas Shortage

The ongoing conflict in the Middle East has increased diesel prices, resulting in higher transportation costs which have caused significant losses for industry players, according to the LP Gas Industry Association.

The decision to supply only half cylinders has drastically reduced earnings for gas dealers and industries.

Previously, dealers earned a commission of NPR 58 per cylinder, but now they must be satisfied with NPR 29. Similarly, industry commissions dropped from NPR 31.90 to approximately NPR 16.

Profits from transportation fees, previously NPR 45.88, have halved to NPR 23, which has made business operations increasingly difficult.

The Nepal LP Gas Industry Association admitted that transportation costs in hill and Terai districts are a significant reason behind gas shortages.

Although gas imports from India remain regular, doubling transportation costs for half cylinder distribution have created shortages, Association President Diwan Chand said.

He explained that transporting from Kailali Attariya to Baitadi or Darchula can cost up to NPR 100,000 per truck.

Originally introduced as a 15-day temporary policy, the extension of the half cylinder rule for three months has caused major losses to industries, leading Chand to reject claims of an artificial shortage.

Industry Claims of Gas Smuggling to India from Terai

Gas entrepreneurs identified gas smuggling into India via open borders as another cause behind the shortage in Terai areas.

They claim that gas is regularly taken across the open border from regions like Janakpur to India.

“Previously, dealers sold 100 cylinders; now demand is 200-250 cylinders,” an industry source said, “the increased demand is due to gas being diverted to India.”

Due to price hikes and stricter regulations in India, Nepal’s cheaper gas is being smuggled across the border, they claim.

“In India, subsidized cylinders are available only once every 28 days, and additional cylinders are expensive,” the source explained. “India has a five-kilogram cylinder policy, and since Nepal offers 7.1 kg half cylinders cheaply, gas is increasingly being smuggled through the border.”

The association has demanded that the Nepal Oil Corporation revoke the half cylinder policy and resume full cylinder distribution, provided India does not cut the gas quota it supplies to Nepal.

No Gas Shortage, Demand Has Fallen: Oil Corporation

While rumors of shortage continue, Nepal Oil Corporation has stated there has been no cut in gas supply.

Spokesperson Manoj Thakur said gas distribution is proceeding as per their quota.

“Our quota is about 49,500 tons, and industries are receiving gas accordingly. We have no issues with imports,” he said.

Thakur claimed that gas demand has decreased since the half cylinder policy was implemented.

“In February, we imported 51,000 tons of gas. After switching to half cylinders, consumption has dropped to about 35,000 tons,” he said.

NOC attributes shortages in various districts to internal disputes between industries and distributors.

He confirmed there have been no discussions within NOC about removing the half cylinder policy and resuming full cylinder distribution.

Thakur added that the ongoing war in West Asia shows signs of ending, which may lead to a decline in international petroleum prices and could reduce costs in the near future.

Disagreement Between Oil Corporation and Sellers’ Federation

Despite the Oil Corporation’s claim that demand and consumption have dropped following the introduction of the half cylinder policy, the Nepal Gas Sellers Federation rejects this assertion.

The federation claims that consumers consider filling half cylinders inconvenient and prefer to keep empty cylinders at home while waiting for full cylinders.

Federation president Gyaneshwar Aryal explained that fears of running out of gas and transportation difficulties have caused consumers to stop refilling half cylinders.

“The corporation says demand has dropped, but in reality, many people are holding onto empty cylinders at home, hoping full cylinders become available,” he said.

The federation also pointed out that due to reduced loading by the corporation and lower imports from India, industries have been unable to supply fuel as per demand.

The federation has warned NOC that there could be a large influx of empty cylinders in the market once the decision to resume full cylinder filling is made.

They stated that filling a full cylinder requires 100 to 120 loading trucks daily, but currently only about 70-80 trucks are servicing, leading to supply management issues.

With NOC reluctant to reverse the policy and industries and transporters unable to bear the technical and financial burdens of the half cylinder system, a gas shortage has surfaced in the market.

This situation forces daily consumers to endure long queues and pay higher prices for gas.

The formal part of your China visit is nearing completion. How do you evaluate this visit overall?

From my perspective, this visit had two primary objectives. First, the newly formed government following the elections sought to initiate high-level bilateral visits to strengthen relations between the two countries. Second, it was important to share the new government’s priorities with the Chinese side. Additionally, continuing traditional diplomatic strategies with China was also a goal. I believe that both formal and informal meetings helped create a positive environment.

It appears China was trying to understand the new political leadership formed after the ‘Janajati’ movement even before your visit. There were various suspicions concerning the government’s nature and how close or distant it would be from China. To what extent did your visit address these doubts?

China’s official stance is clear: regardless of political changes in Nepal, they want to work together with Nepal and maintain the stability of traditional relations. Since I have previously led the foreign department of the Rastriya Swatantra Party, we already had established links with the Chinese party. So, we weren’t new to the Chinese side. Contrary to what was said externally, there wasn’t significant suspicion. Even if some existed, this visit helped clarify matters and build mutual trust.

Yesterday, as Foreign Minister, you met with your counterparts and, in your capacity as head of RSP’s foreign department, also met the head of the CCP’s foreign department. These meetings have different dimensions and significance. You mentioned ‘A close neighbor is better than a distant relative.’ What was the context and meaning behind this statement?

The Chinese official had returned from a visit to Mongolia, during which we discussed Mongolia’s ‘Third Neighbor’ policy and relations with the United States. He compared Nepal and Mongolia as similarly landlocked nations and conveyed China’s perspective of prioritizing close neighbors. The phrase “A close neighbor is better than a distant relative” was used in this context, indicating that Nepal should understand and embrace this viewpoint as well.

There are concerns that the RSP government may lean westward and that China is worried about projects like the MCC and SPIP. Were these issues brought up during your visit?

The MCC and SPIP topics were indeed discussed. The Chinese side believes that certain powers might use Nepal to harm China, so Nepal must stay vigilant. Road and infrastructure work under MCC is ongoing. Regarding projects like SPIP, China suggested that Nepal should make decisions based on their merits and drawbacks. We clarified that Nepal is not part of any security alliance and follows a policy of non-alignment.

There are also Chinese concerns about increased Tibetan refugee activities in Nepal. What was discussed on this matter?

This is a longstanding issue that recent governments have also addressed in dialogue. We reiterated Nepal’s traditional position—that no anti-China activities are allowed on Nepali soil. We made this clear to the Chinese side. Without specific names or open accusations, the Chinese side also desires the same clarity and cooperation.

Did you discuss the ten projects under the BRI? How might these progress going forward?

We did not have detailed discussions on specific projects, but the general approach to advancing BRI-related projects was raised. Our focus is primarily on connectivity and infrastructure development.

Was there any discussion on financial modalities under the BRI framework agreements?

We could only engage in theoretical discussions about financing modalities. It is clear that project selection and prioritization are important. Connectivity projects are of special interest, and once financial agreements are in place, work can proceed.

As head of RSP’s foreign department and actively involved in party foreign policy formulation, what is your view on the BRI projects with China?

BRI projects are not inherently bad. However, it is vital to evaluate the economic merits and benefits of each project. Some projects on the list are good, but every project must be assessed on its own quality before moving forward.

What is the government’s stance on the Amargadhi Sports Stadium and Jhapa stadium projects?

The Amargadhi project began before the BRI and currently faces legal and land-related issues with the Investment Board. The possibility of high operational costs exists, so the project’s viability will be discussed based on these factors.

There is a significant trade imbalance between Nepal and China. Are there initiatives to help Nepalese products access the Chinese market?

Nepal imports many goods from China but exports very little there. China provides duty-free access on around 8,000 products, but Nepal has not been able to fully utilize this due to insufficient production volume and standards.

We need to focus on high-value agricultural exports and medicinal herbal products. To achieve this, collaboration with China in quality testing and establishing certification laboratories is necessary. Initially, manpower is more critical than equipment. The Chinese side is positive about this cooperation.

Has Nepal’s relatively small export volume impacted trade and market access in China?

That is likely the case. We have not been able to meet the quality and quantity standards set by the Chinese market.

By focusing on high-tech and low-weight products, Nepal can integrate into the supply chain. Although direct competition with China is challenging, participating in value and supply chains offers opportunities to learn technology and generate employment.

What kind of support does Nepal expect from China in technology, tourism, investment, and industrial sector development?

In high-level business discussions, I emphasized the tourism sector the most. Tourism is a relatively easy option to quickly improve Nepal’s economy. Despite many outbound tourists from China annually, only about 95,000 visit Nepal, which is a very small share of the Chinese market. This needs urgent improvement.

The dialogue highlighted the need to develop infrastructure, improve internal networks, resolve air connectivity issues, and invest in hotels and hospitality. If the Chinese government views this positively, support will be easier to obtain.

Nepal struggles with tourism promotion and awareness, including in Beijing where knowledge about Nepal is limited. What plans are there to improve publicity?

I have frequently heard this since joining the Foreign Ministry. Nepal’s presence on Chinese-language social media is somewhat weak. I am considering establishing a ‘China Specific Desk’ using social media to aid in promotional efforts.

During the recent investment conference, what types of questions did Chinese investors ask about investing in Nepal?

Chinese investors showed interest in various opportunities, particularly in technology, AI, smart cities, and tourism. Some inquired about the South Asian market and legal frameworks. We realized the need to present Nepal’s potential more effectively.

Investors require clarity on contact persons and legal systems. Our financial ties are weak, so establishing a ‘Dedicated China Desk’ is necessary.

What are the main challenges hindering progress on previous high-level visits and project implementation?

The biggest challenges lie in management and follow-up. Many projects are announced, but proposals are not submitted in a timely manner. Institutional capacity limitations within our government machinery are a primary cause.

How did the Chinese side respond regarding the corruption allegations at Pokhara Airport?

The Chinese were concerned this issue might be an attempt to damage China’s reputation. I clarified that the Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority is conducting legal investigations independently and China is not involved. We are ready to cooperate further with facts if required.

You arrived in China shortly after returning from India. What are your thoughts on maintaining balanced relations?

The visit to India was planned earlier but rescheduling led to two trips within a short period. Our policy is to maintain friendly relations with all neighbors, though each relationship has its own dimensions and uniqueness. I have tried to advance relations separately but with parallel objectives.

What is China’s position and role regarding the disputes over Lipulekh, Limpiyadhura, and Kalapani?

The Chinese side acknowledged the longstanding agreement to open Mansarovar pilgrimage but clarified that dialogue between India and Nepal is necessary on this matter. Their main position is that the dispute is bilateral between India and Nepal, and China does not intervene. We clearly expressed our concerns regarding our geography.

Before meeting the Foreign Minister, you also met with the CCP’s foreign department head. What was the significance of that meeting?

From a party perspective, he is my counterpart, and the party plays a crucial role in China’s governance. The leadership of the ruling party is very important in China. Such meetings strengthen party-to-party relations.

RSP’s principles might differ from CCP’s guiding ideologies. How do you sustain relations despite these differences?

The Chinese side has stated that regardless of which party is in power in Nepal, they want to maintain relations, especially with ruling parties. They are interested in practical exchange of practices and learning. We have also expressed our desire to learn from China’s economic development and progress.

Finally, how do you envision Nepal-China relations over the next five years?

We share political, cultural, people-to-people, and geographical ties. Over the next five years, we expect significant progress in economic relations and connectivity. Tourism, infrastructure, agriculture, and industrialization sectors will also see substantial development. I am confident this government will achieve more progress than the previous five years.