The NEPSE Journal
Market commentary, data deep-dives, and trading notes from the NEPSE Trading desk.
In 2025/26, the UAE became the top destination for Nepali migrant workers, surpassing Saudi Arabia with 40% share of new approvals. The trend highlights shifting labor demand and opportunities in the Gulf region.
Nepal’s imports rose 11.4% in 2025/26, highlighting strong demand across food, energy, and consumer goods. But rising dependency risks deepening the trade deficit unless domestic industries are strengthened.
Nepal’s import declines in 2025/26 were led by electrical goods (-31.2%), garments (-18.3%), machinery (-14.7%), telecom (-8.3%), and petroleum (-5.6%). The trend reflects weaker demand, policy restrictions, and industrial slowdowns.
Nepal’s import growth in 2025/26 was led by soyabean oil (+707.9%), coal (+53.2%), vegetables (+48.4%), rice (+45.9%), and gold (+24.5%), underscoring demand shifts but also revealing dependency challenges.
Electrical goods imports in Nepal dropped by 31.2% in 2025/26, driven by weaker consumer demand, project completions, tighter liquidity, and policy restrictions. While easing trade deficit pressure, it raises concerns over economic slowdown.
Nepal’s medical equipment imports rose by 9% in 2025/26, reflecting rising demand from hospitals and clinics. But experts warn that dependence on imports could hurt affordability and long-term healthcare sustainability.
Nepal’s chemical imports rose by 9.8% in 2025/26, underscoring heavy reliance on foreign inputs for industrial production. Experts say domestic chemical manufacturing must be developed to reduce dependency and strengthen industrial security.
Nepal’s vegetable imports rose by 48.4% in 2025/26, highlighting weak domestic production and growing urban demand. Experts say self-sufficiency requires modern farming, storage infrastructure, and farmer-focused policies.
Computer and parts imports in Nepal rose by 3.1% in 2025/26, reflecting growing digitalization, IT adoption, and demand from education and youth. But heavy import reliance highlights the need for local tech manufacturing and policy support.
Gold imports in Nepal rose 24.5% in 2025/26, fueled by safe-haven demand, cultural consumption, and inflation hedging. But experts warn the trend could strain foreign reserves and trade balance if unchecked.