Retail sugar prices, which were hovering around 95 Nepalese rupees per kilogram just a few weeks ago, have now climbed to nearly 110 Nepalese rupees per kilogram. The sudden increase has intensified consumer anxiety, particularly with major festivals such as Dashain, Tihar, and Chhath approaching, during which sugar demand typically rises significantly.
Consumer rights activists have warned that prices could climb further if timely government intervention is not undertaken. They allege that certain traders may be exploiting India’s export restrictions to create an artificial perception of shortage despite adequate stock availability. They have urged the government to assess the real-time supply and demand situation and implement necessary regulatory measures to stabilize prices.
In contrast, officials from the Ministry of Industry have stated that the current sugar stock is sufficient to meet domestic requirements at least until October. The government maintains that domestic production combined with previously imported sugar ensures steady supply in the market. As a result, there is no immediate plan to import additional sugar from India.
The Nepal Sugar Mills Association has reported that sugar mills across the country currently hold approximately 100,000 tons of sugar in stock. Additionally, around 70,000 tons of sugar have already been imported during the current fiscal year. Industry representatives acknowledge that minor price fluctuations are normal, but they do not foresee any large-scale supply crisis at this stage.
The evolving situation highlights the delicate balance between regional trade policy shifts and domestic market stability, as Nepal prepares for its peak seasonal demand period.
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