Nepal News Evening Economic Brief – March 22, 2026
Summary
Nepal's petroleum imports increased by 1.76% in the first eight months of FY 2025/26, while LPG imports declined. The National Natural Resources and Finance Commission recommended Rs 151 billion in fiscal equalization grants to provinces and local governments. Nepalgunj Customs collected only about 52% of its revenue target. The trade deficit reached Rs 1.1 trillion till the second quarter. NEPSE index rose by 54.51 points on Sunday.
Key Points
- Nepal’s petroleum imports increased by 1.76% in the first eight months of FY 2025/26, led by diesel and petrol, while LPG imports declined.
- The National Natural Resources and Finance Commission (NNRFC) recommended Rs 151.707 billion in financial equalization grants for provinces and local governments for the upcoming fiscal year.
- Nepalgunj Customs Office collected only about 52% of its revenue target in the first eight months of FY 2025/26, falling short of expected revenue despite increased trade.
- Nepal’s trade deficit reached around Rs 1.1 trillion in the first eight months of FY 2025/26, with high deficits particularly with India and China.
