Government to Build Bhairahawa ICP, Vows to End Syndicates and Cartels

Kathmandu — Finance Minister Dr. Swarnim Wagle has announced various plans and allocations for the commerce and supplies sector through the budget.

Wagle said additional concessions will be provided to Nepali products that are exported in significant quantities to the world market and have already established a brand.

The Finance Minister said a Trade and Industrial Logistics Master Plan will be implemented to facilitate trade and investment. He said Rs 1.18 billion has been allocated for a production-based incentive programme, with a Master Plan for National Productivity Growth to be prepared.

He said the construction of the Integrated Check Post (ICP) in Bhairahawa will be completed swiftly and brought into operation, while the ICP under construction in Chandani Dodhara will be completed within two years.

Wagle said commodity-specific export strategies will be prepared and implemented to boost the export of goods identified by the Nepal Trade Integration Strategy — such as rugs, carpets, yarn, ready-made garments, and cement — as well as low-weight, high-value goods.

The Finance Minister said the necessary study will be carried out on entering into futures contracts to maintain fuel price stability. He said the installation of EV charging stations with minimum infrastructure at petrol pumps will be encouraged.

He said the Nepal Oil Corporation will sign agreements with ethanol-producing industries and guarantee purchases at a fixed price.

Wagle said all kinds of syndicates, cartelling, black marketeering, profiteering, and unhealthy competition will be ended by strengthening the regulatory body.

The Finance Minister said a total of Rs 8.31 billion has been allocated for the industry, commerce, and supplies sector.