KATHMANDU: During the ten months of 2024/25, merchandise exports increased 72.7 percent to Rs. 217.91 billion against a decrease of 3.6 percent in the same period of the previous year, according to the Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB).
The NRB report, ‘Current Macroeconomic and Financial Situation of Nepal (Based on Ten Months Data Ending Mid-May 2024/25)’, published today, states that destination-wise, exports to India, China and other countries increased 104.7 percent, 5.1 percent and 4.2 percent respectively.
Exports of soyabean oil, polyster yarn and thread, tea, jute goods, and oil cakes, among others increased whereas exports of palm oil, zinc sheet, readymade garments, juice, and cardamom, among others decreased in the review period.
During the ten months of 2024/25, merchandise imports increased 13.1 percent to Rs.1474.19 billion against a decline of 2.4 percent a year ago.
Destination-wise, imports from India, China and other countries increased 7.9 percent, 15.1 percent and 28.3 percent respectively. Imports of crude soyabean oil, rice/paddy, edible oil, transport equipment, vehicle and spare parts, sponge iron, among others increased whereas imports of petroleum products, gold, electrical equipment, chemical fertilizer, and coal among others decreased in the review period.
On the export side, exports from all other major custom points have increased except for Jaleshwor, Kanchanpur, and Tatopani.
On the import side, imports from all major customs points including Bhairahawa, Biratnagar, Birgunj, Dry port, Jaleshwor, Kailali, Kanchanpur, Krishnanagar, Mechi, Nepalgunj, Rasuwa, and Tribhuwan Airport customs offices have increased.
Trade deficit up 6.7 percent
Total trade deficit increased 6.7 percent to Rs.1256.28 billion during the ten months of 2024/25. Such a deficit had decreased 2.3 percent in the corresponding period of the previous year. The export-import ratio increased to 14.8 percent in the review period from 9.7 percent in the corresponding period of the previous year.
During the ten months of 2024/25, merchandise imports from India against payment in convertible foreign currency amounted Rs.152.48 billion. Such amount was Rs.122.02 billion in the same period of the previous year.
