Nepal Chamber of Commerce Urges MRP Policy Rethink: Focus on Consumer Education, Not Penalties
4th June 2025, Kathmandu
The Nepal Chamber of Commerce (NCC) has called on the government to rethink its approach to implementing the Maximum Retail Price (MRP) and labeling regulations.
Nepal Chamber MRP Policy Rethink
A team led by NCC Vice President Deepak Shrestha met with Industry, Commerce, and Supplies Minister Damodar Bhandari to raise the issue. The Chamber recommended that the government prioritize awareness programs for both consumers and sellers before starting strict enforcement.
Protecting Consumer Rights Through Education
In a press statement, the Chamber emphasized that consumers have a constitutional right to quality products and services. To support this right, the Chamber believes the public should receive proper information about market practices. Instead of immediately penalizing businesses, the focus should shift to education and promotion. The Chamber argued that this approach would strengthen transparency and ensure informed consumer choices.
However, it stated that the Department of Commerce, Supplies, and Consumer Protection has skipped these vital steps. The department has launched sudden monitoring activities and issued notices enforcing MRP labeling on all domestic and imported goods. This move has caused stress among business owners who already follow legal procedures.
Industry And Market Feel The Pressure
The Chamber warned that such rushed enforcement could worsen Nepal’s fragile business environment. It said that legitimate entrepreneurs are now being penalized due to unclear policies and poor coordination. According to the NCC, the enforcement under Section 6 of the Consumer Protection Act 2075 is damaging trust and stability in the market.
There was already an understanding between business associations and government officials to resolve MRP issues through dialogue. But recent actions show a different reality. The Chamber pointed out that government officials are now using threats and pressure tactics against entrepreneurs. This approach violates the spirit of the earlier agreement and is pushing the private sector into a corner.
Chamber Seeks Fair Treatment For Businesses
The NCC urged the government to stop intimidating business owners. It called for a cooperative approach where issues get resolved through discussion, not force. The Chamber clarified that it does not support illegal activities by any trader. However, it stressed that government action must be just and balanced.
According to the Chamber, it is unfair to punish those who follow the rules while failing to educate the public. It also expressed concern that the rapid actions by the Department could damage long-standing trust between the private sector and regulatory agencies.
Long-Term Solutions Over Short-Term Penalties
The Chamber insisted that long-term solutions need more than enforcement. It wants joint efforts to build understanding among consumers, sellers, and producers. The NCC said that clear labeling laws are important. However, sudden implementation without support systems will only cause confusion and chaos.
Instead, it suggested that the government invest in educational campaigns. These would explain the purpose and benefits of MRP labeling. Such efforts would help sellers comply and guide consumers to make better choices.
The Chamber also emphasized that awareness efforts should reach traders in rural and urban markets alike. It said that the private sector is ready to help in this effort if the government leads with transparency and consistency.
NCC Stands For Lawful Business Environment
The Nepal Chamber of Commerce made it clear that it supports regulations that protect consumers. But it stressed that law-abiding entrepreneurs should not suffer due to a lack of communication or sudden actions. It urged all stakeholders to work together to ensure a balanced and fair regulatory process.
The Chamber also reminded the government that an unstable industrial climate harms national economic growth. It called on authorities to treat businesses as partners in development, not as adversaries.
Conclusion: Dialogue, Not Threats
In closing, the Chamber demanded that threatening behavior toward businesses must end immediately. It asked the government to respect past agreements and engage in honest conversations with the private sector. By doing so, the country can ensure that both consumers and businesses benefit.
The Nepal Chamber of Commerce continues to represent thousands of businesses across Nepal. Through dialogue and cooperation, it hopes to help shape a policy environment that supports ethical trade, informed consumers, and a thriving economy.
For more: Nepal Chamber MRP Policy Rethink
