Nepal Chamber of Commerce (NCC) & Minister Bhandari Discuss MRP Enforcement Challenges
23rd July 2025, Kathmandu
The Nepal Chamber of Commerce (NCC) recently hosted a crucial interaction program with Minister for Industry, Commerce, and Supplies, Damodar Bhandari, to address the mounting concerns surrounding the implementation of Maximum Retail Price (MRP) in Nepal.
NCC Discuss Minister Bhandari
The event, held at the Chamber’s headquarters in Jamal, brought together over 150 private sector entrepreneurs and business leaders.
A primary issue raised by the NCC was the widespread confusion and lack of public awareness regarding MRP enforcement, which directly impacts both businesses and consumers. NCC President Kamlesh Kumar Agrawal stressed that MRP implementation should only proceed following inclusive dialogue and a consensus among all relevant stakeholders.
President Agrawal highlighted that the Department of Commerce, Supplies and Consumer Protection has recently intensified market monitoring, frequently imposing hefty fines for non-compliance with MRP labeling. He underscored the immense practical difficulties of enforcing MRP labeling on imported goods, given Nepal’s heavy reliance on imports for most consumer products.
Furthermore, Agrawal pointed out that Nepal currently utilizes a reference value system at customs, advocating for a shift to the transaction value system, which aligns with World Trade Organization (WTO) guidelines. He cautioned that imposing severe fines during an already fragile business environment could further destabilize Nepal’s industrial and commercial sectors. Agrawal also emphasized the importance of upholding consumers’ rights to quality goods and services, calling for extensive awareness campaigns on product labeling and market transparency.
Many private sector representatives at the event voiced their dissatisfaction with the recent enforcement drives, alleging unnecessary harassment of businesses in the name of MRP and labeling. Several participants also admitted to having limited knowledge about the current MRP regulations.
In response to the concerns, Minister Bhandari assured the business community that further discussions would be held in coordination with relevant authorities before proceeding with stricter MRP enforcement.
Dr. Ram Prasad Ghimire, Secretary of the Ministry, also attended the interaction, indicating the government’s recognition of the issue. This dialogue signifies a crucial step towards finding a balanced approach that protects consumer interests while ensuring a conducive environment for businesses in Nepal.
For more: NCC Discuss Minister Bhandari
