MRP Mandate and the Border Trade Freeze: Everything You Need to Know
Summary
Nepal's government enforced a mandatory Maximum Retail Price (MRP) labeling on all imported finished goods at customs from April 28, 2026, causing a trade freeze with over 1,000 containers stranded. Following disruptions, the government relaxed the rule, allowing self-declaration of MRP to resume trade.
Key Points
- Nepal enforced mandatory MRP labeling on all imported finished goods at customs starting April 28, 2026.
- Over 1,000 containers were stranded at key border customs offices due to non-compliance with the MRP mandate.
- The trade freeze caused a sharp decrease in customs revenue prompting government revision of the enforcement rules.
- From April 29, importers can self-declare MRP values and pledge to label goods before retail sale instead of requiring physical stickers at customs.
