NADA and Ministry of Industry Hold Key Discussions: A Push for Policy Reforms in Nepal’s Automobile Sector
26th September 2025, Kathmandu
In a significant move to advance Nepal’s automobile industry, the NADA Automobiles Association of Nepal (NADA) has held an important meeting with the Ministry of Industry, Commerce, and Supplies.
NADA and Ministry of Industry Hold Key Discussions
The NADA delegation, led by President Karan Chaudhary, met with Minister Anil Kumar Sinha to discuss crucial policy reforms, quality certification, and industry protection. This meeting marks a positive step toward stronger collaboration between the government and the private sector.
Key Discussion Points:
1. Impact of the Gen-Z Protest on the Automobile Industry
President Chaudhary brought the minister’s attention to the indirect damage caused to the industry by the recent Gen-Z protest. Although no direct harm was done to production, the widespread vandalism and arson at showrooms and offices have created a significant challenge and negatively impacted customer confidence. NADA has requested the government to provide institutional and policy support to protect the industry.
2. Quality Testing and the Nepal Standard (NS) Mark
NADA highlighted the lack of a proper quality testing lab at the Nepal Bureau of Standards and Metrology, which falls under the ministry. Due to insufficient testing equipment, domestic industries are unable to get their products certified with the Quality Mark (NS Mark). Chaudhary urged the immediate establishment of a modern testing facility, stating that the current situation hinders the credibility and competitive capacity of local industries. General Secretary Surendrakumar Upreti also raised concerns that domestically produced tires, helmets, lubricants, and batteries are facing similar issues.
3. Protection of Lubricant Industries and Prevention of Unauthorized Imports
With over 16 lubricant industries operating in Nepal, NADA emphasized the vital need to protect and promote them. NADA has recommended that the government tighten border controls to prevent an increase in unauthorized imports, citing recent changes in India’s tax system that could lead to smuggling.
4. Vehicle Imports and the BBIN Agreement
NADA expressed concern that the unimpeded movement of vehicles under the BBIN Motor Vehicle Agreement could negatively impact Nepal’s commercial vehicle market. The association urged the government to seriously evaluate this issue. Additionally, NADA pushed for the swift implementation of the Agency Registration Regulation, which it had previously proposed.
5. Positive Response from the Government
During the discussion, Ministry Secretary Krishna Prasad Raut announced that preparations for establishing a new quality testing lab are underway and encouraged the private sector to also set up its own labs.
In his concluding remarks, Minister Anil Kumar Sinha emphasized that no industry can thrive without the collaboration of the government and business community.
He stated that the government is vigilant about strengthening industries and positively received NADA’s demands and suggestions, committing to their swift implementation. He also asked businesspeople to evaluate the ministry’s progress after six months.
Conclusion
This meeting between NADA and the Ministry of Industry was highly positive and fruitful. The mutual understanding and collaboration between both parties are expected to help resolve the challenges in Nepal’s automobile sector and further strengthen the industry. The meeting underscores the need for a strong partnership between the government and the private sector to propel the country’s industry, trade, and economy forward.
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