Merchandise exports rise 88.6 pc, imports 16.2 pc in two months of current FY

KATHMANDU: Merchandise exports in the country rose by 88.6% to Rs 47.32 billion in the first two months of current fiscal year 2025/26, against a 5.1% decrease in the same period of the previous year, according to the latest macroeconomic and financial situation report released by Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) on Tuesday.  

By destination, exports to India and other markets increased by 139.9% and 0.4% respectively, while exports to China fell by 58.5%. Exports of soya-bean oil, palm oil, jute goods, cardamom and noodles increased, while exports of zinc sheet, particle board, tea, woollen carpet and oil cakes decreased in the review period.  

Likewise, merchandise imports rose by 16.2% to Rs 305.16 billion in the first two months of current fiscal year, compared with 1.1% increase a year earlier. By destination, imports from India, China and other markets increased by 8.0%, 25.1% and 33.4% respectively. Imports of crude soya-bean oil, chemical fertiliser, transport equipment, vehicles and spare parts, aircraft spare parts and telecommunications equipment and parts increased, while imports of hot-rolled coil sheet, edible oil, ready-made garments, oil seeds and garlic fell in the review period.  

Total trade deficit widened by 8.6% to Rs 257.84 billion during the first two months of current fiscal year, after rising by 1.8% in the corresponding period of the previous year. The export–import ratio increased to 15.5% from 9.6% a year earlier.  

Merchandise imports from India paid for in convertible foreign currency amounted to Rs 27.75 billion in the first two months of current fiscal year, down from Rs 29.93 billion in the same period of the previous year.