The Government of Nepal has banned the import of ten types of consumer goods including motorcycles above 250cc and petrol/diesel cars. According to the details published in the Nepal Gazette by the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supplies, the import of luxury consumer goods will stay put till the end of the current Nepali fiscal year. The goods that have been banned for import are as follows:

1. Crunchy sticks like Kurkure, Kurmure and similar products
2. All kinds of prepared wine
3. Cigarettes and tobacco products (raw materials are exempted)
4. Diamonds (exemption for import of industrial raw materials)
5. Mobile set
6. Color television (over 32 inches)
7. Jeeps, cars and vans (available for ambulance and hearse)
8. Motorcycles with an engine capacity of more than 250 cc
9. All kinds of toys
10. Playing cards.

The temporary ban on the import of the aforementioned items is primarily due to foreign currency outflows and depleting foreign currency reserves, says the Ministry. However, the ban won’t affect goods imported for diplomatic purposes. Similarly, the ban will not be applicable to those who have completed the banking process before 13th April.