Nepal Automobile Sector: NADA Seeks Clear Customs Policies & Transparency

20th March 2025, Kathmandu

A significant dialogue has taken place between the Nepal Automobile Dealers’ Association (NADA) and the Department of Customs, focusing on issues related to the automobile business in Nepal.

Nepal Automobile Sector 2081

The discussion, led by NADA’s General Secretary Surendra Kumar Upreti, involved a delegation meeting with the Director General of the Customs Department, Mahesh Bhattarai, to address various challenges and opportunities in the sector.

During the meeting, General Secretary Upreti presented a series of recommendations compiled by NADA’s various committees. He emphasized the need for necessary amendments in the budget for the fiscal year 2082/83, urging the government to consider the concerns of automobile businesses while formulating policies. Upreti stressed that the government must prioritize the challenges faced by automobile dealers and create a business-friendly environment. NADA has called for clear customs policies and a level playing field where businesses can operate in a transparent and competitive environment.

Director General Bhattarai, in response, highlighted the importance of ethical business practices and urged businesses to adopt fair trade principles. He assured that the government is committed to promoting a transparent business environment by formulating necessary policies and mechanisms. Bhattarai also emphasized the need for stronger collaboration between the government and the private sector to foster mutual growth and understanding.

The meeting was attended by several key officials from NADA, including Secretary Vikram Singhania, Treasurer Milanbabu Mall, and Vice Chairman of the Lubricants Committee Deepak Kumar, among others. They reiterated the importance of continuous dialogue with the government to ensure the creation of business-friendly policies.

NADA has made a special appeal to the government to establish a transparent business environment and implement policies and regulations that facilitate the growth of the automobile sector. While the discussion concluded on a positive note, stakeholders believe that further dialogue is essential to bring about meaningful policy reforms.

Key Takeaways:

NADA has urged the government to address the challenges faced by automobile dealers in the upcoming budget.

Clear and transparent customs policies are essential for fostering a competitive business environment.

Ethical business practices and stronger government-business collaboration are critical for sector growth.

Continuous dialogue between NADA and the government is necessary to ensure the implementation of business-friendly policies.

This discussion marks a step forward in addressing the concerns of Nepal’s automobile sector, but stakeholders agree that sustained efforts and policy reforms are needed to create a truly transparent and supportive business environment.

For more: Nepal Automobile Sector 2081