The NEPSE Journal
Market commentary, data deep-dives, and trading notes from the NEPSE Trading desk.
Nepal’s BoP surplus surged to Rs. 78 billion in mid-August 2025, largely due to strong remittance inflows and higher reserves, even as trade deficits remain high.
Although migration to Japan and Europe is rising, UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait still dominate, employing more than 70% of Nepali workers in 2025/26 due to easier access, high demand, and historical patterns.
South Korea’s recruitment of Nepali workers fell by 67% in 2025/26, highlighting challenges in EPS quotas, skill barriers, and competition. This decline reduces access to one of the safest and best-paying labor markets for Nepalis.
In 2025/26, the Top 5 destinations for Nepali workers were UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Malaysia, together employing over 75% of Nepal’s new migrant workforce.
In just one month of 2025/26, 44,466 Nepalis migrated abroad for work, with the UAE and Qatar leading as top destinations. The data underscores the country’s reliance on foreign jobs and remittances as a lifeline for the national economy.
Saudi Arabia’s demand for Nepali workers fell by 14.5% in 2025/26, while Japan (+50.6%) and Cyprus (+18.2%) showed strong growth — signaling a shift in Nepal’s migration map toward safer and diversified destinations.
Qatar and UAE remain the top recruiters of Nepali workers in 2025/26. While the UAE leads in new hires, Qatar dominates in renewals — making them the twin pillars of Nepal’s labor migration.
Romania’s demand for Nepali workers plunged 60% in 2025/26, reversing last year’s boom. The fall reflects poor labor conditions, market saturation, and stricter recruitment rules.
Nepali workers renewing contracts in Malaysia surged by 89% in 2025/26, reflecting stronger labor demand and Malaysia’s industrial recovery. Experts, however, stress the need for better worker protections.
