EV Imports Need Regulation: Santosh Koirala

Nepal Bankers Association President Santosh Koirala has stated that not everyone should be allowed to import electric vehicles (EVs). Speaking at the ‘NADA Auto Dialogue’ organized by the NADA Automobiles Association of Nepal, he noted that even companies previously involved in hydropower and agriculture are now importing EVs from China. “The state must decide who can import what kind of EVs,” he said.

During a panel discussion on ‘Long-Term Policy for the Auto Sector,’ Koirala emphasized the need to evaluate importers’ infrastructure and EV quality. He raised concerns: “What about battery and technology standards? Is there engineering expertise in Nepal to repair EVs?” He added that banks are grappling with issues like setting down payments at 50%, 60%, or 80% and recovering funds if borrowers abandon EVs after two years. Koirala stressed the urgency for clear policies to regulate EV imports.