Motorcycle import growth in Nepal boosts revenue
5th February 2026, Kathmandu
The Nepali automobile sector has witnessed a significant resurgence in the first six months of the fiscal year 2082 2083, with motorcycle import growth in Nepal emerging as a primary driver of customs revenue. Data from major transit points, particularly the Birgunj Customs Office, indicates a sharp year on year increase across all categories, including unassembled kits (CKD), fully built units (CBU), and the rapidly expanding electric vehicle (EV) segment. This growth reflects a rebound in consumer confidence and a strategic shift by manufacturers toward domestic assembly.
Motorcycle import growth
As of Magh 2082 (January 2026), the total value of motor vehicles and spare parts imported through Birgunj alone reached 18.15 billion rupees, a 6 billion rupee increase compared to the previous year.
Dominance of Unassembled Motorcycles and Local Assembly
A defining feature of the motorcycle import growth in Nepal this year is the massive preference for unassembled (CKD) units. By importing parts instead of finished products, companies benefit from lower customs duties, which they use to remain competitive in a price sensitive market.
Import Volume: A total of 32,331 unassembled motorcycles were imported in the first six months, valued at 4.56 billion rupees.
Revenue Contribution: This segment alone generated 4.43 billion rupees in revenue for the government.
Growth Comparison: In the same period last year, imports stood at 25,857 units worth 3.38 billion rupees, representing a 25 percent increase in volume.
Major brands like Bajaj, TVS, Yamaha, and Royal Enfield have now established local assembly plants, which has helped stabilize prices despite global inflationary pressures.
More Than Double Growth in Assembled Motorcycle Imports
While the assembly industry thrives, the import of fully built (CBU) regular motorcycles has also seen a surprising spike. This category usually includes premium models or brands that have not yet set up local manufacturing units.
According to Birgunj Customs records:
Units Imported: 4,567 fully assembled motorcycles entered the country in the first half of the year.
Value: These imports were valued at 458.1 million rupees.
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Year on Year Surge: This is more than double the 2,192 units (valued at 207.6 million rupees) imported during the same period in the previous fiscal year.
The demand for high capacity bikes (above 200cc) and feature rich premium commuters continues to grow as young riders prioritize technology and performance over basic fuel economy.
Electric Motorcycle Momentum and Sustainability
Electric motorcycles are no longer a niche market but a major contributor to the motorcycle import growth in Nepal. Driven by favorable tax policies and the increasing availability of charging infrastructure in urban centers like Kathmandu and Pokhara, the EV segment is growing at a rapid pace.
Import Data: 4,594 electric motorcycles worth 581.8 million rupees were imported in the first six months.
Market Shift: This is a significant jump from the 2,218 units (309.6 million rupees) imported in the prior year.
Top Brands: Chinese and Indian brands, including Yadea, TVS iQube, and Ather, are currently leading the market share in the electric two wheeler space.
Economic Impact and Revenue Collection
The surge in imports has provided a much needed boost to the national treasury. Total revenue collected from vehicle and spare part imports at the Birgunj point rose to 13.98 billion rupees this year, up from 10.21 billion rupees in the previous period. This nearly 37 percent increase in revenue collection highlights the importance of the automobile sector to Nepal’s fiscal health.
However, economists warn that the widening trade deficit—which rose by 10.15 percent in the first half of the year—remains a concern. The government’s challenge will be to balance the high demand for imported goods with the need to promote domestic value addition.
Conclusion
The motorcycle import growth in Nepal during the first half of 2026 underscores a vibrant and evolving market. With over 32,000 CKD units and 4,500 electric bikes entering the country, the trend toward local assembly and green energy is clear. As the fiscal year progresses, the industry’s focus is expected to shift further toward high capacity premium bikes and the expansion of the “Big Bike” culture, supported by improved road networks and better financing options for consumers.
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